In Need Of A Root Canal? Here's How To Tell

If you are experiencing advanced tooth decay, a root canal may be necessary if you want to save the tooth

. The procedure is used by dentists to take out the exposed nerve and decayed mass of the tooth, before sealing it back up. It is sometimes used as an alternative to extraction. The procedure is more expensive than extraction, but it is preferred by those who would like to keep the tooth. How do you know if you might be in need of the procedure? There is no substitute to seeing a dentist regularly for a full inspection. On your own, however, there are some signs you can watch out for.

Toothache

This is one of the first signs that you could be in need of a root canal procedure. When a tooth begins to experience decay, pain almost always follows. This is especially true when the decay advances. While many a patient has failed to detect their own cavities through pain, if the nerve is exposed, you are going to experience some degree of pain, especially when something comes into contact with the tooth. Chewing may become painful.

Sensitivity

If you are noticing an increased sensitivity to temperature extremes, it could be a sign that you need a root canal. This is only a reliable sign when the sensitivity is limited to a single tooth or a small area in the mouth. If your entire mouth is becoming more sensitive to heat and cold, it could be a sign of another problem. In either circumstance, it is worth discussing the phenomenon with your dentist.

Appearance

This is one of the least reliable methods of diagnosing the need for a root canal. You are not a professional dentist and you don't have the experience (or the tools) you need to make a determination based on appearance. Still, you can always take a look to see if you notice anything out of the usual. Look for a discolored outer enamel, as this is often a sign of tooth decay.

Gums

When a tooth begins experiencing decay, it will often affect the surrounding gums. They may become swollen or tender, especially during episodes when the tooth pain asserts itself. If you notice bleeding and other unusual problems, it could also be a sign that you have gingivitis or another type of gum disease.

While all of the above and more can act as a sign of tooth decay, the lack of any particular sign is by no means a signal that you are in the clear. Regular evaluations by a dentist are needed to ensure tooth problems are caught before they become serious.

by: Abigail Aaronson

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