A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at treating infections inside a tooth and preserving its structure. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, it might be tempting to assume it will go away on its own.
However, in some cases, these signs can indicate a deeper issue that requires professional treatment. Learning about the symptoms that signal the need for a root canal can help you address dental problems early. If you’re unsure, consulting a root canal specialist Dubai is the best way to get the right diagnosis.
Severe tooth pain:
One of the most common signs that you might need a root canal is persistent and severe tooth pain. This pain is often deep within the tooth and may worsen when you chew or apply pressure. If your tooth aches continuously, even without touching it, this could suggest infection or inflammation inside the tooth, which may require a root canal to resolve.
Prolonged sensitive to hot or cold:
If your tooth remains sensitive to hot or cold temperatures for an extended period, it could be a sign of nerve damage or infection. Normally, this sensitivity should disappear once the stimulus is removed, but in the case of a root canal, the discomfort lingers long after you’ve stopped drinking a hot beverage or eating ice cream. This prolonged sensitivity often indicates that the tooth pulp is compromised.
Swelling and tenderness in the gums:
Swelling in the gums near a specific tooth, along with tenderness, can also signal the need for a root canal. Infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth can cause the surrounding gum tissue to swell, often leading to the formation of a pimple-like bump on the gum. If this bump leaks pus, it’s a clear sign of infection, and a root canal is usually necessary to prevent further complications.
Discoloration of the tooth:
A tooth that becomes discolored, often turning darker or greyish, can indicate that the nerve inside the tooth has died or become severely infected. This discoloration can occur over time as the pulp becomes damaged, and it’s a strong indicator that a root canal may be required to save the tooth and prevent the infection from spreading.
Loose tooth:
If a tooth becomes loose or feels unstable, this may also indicate that the underlying infection has spread into the supporting bone structures. A root canal can help prevent further damage to the tooth and restore stability. In some cases, the infection may also cause bone loss around the tooth.