Root Canal Signs

A root canal can be a daunting term, but it's often the key to saving your tooth and relieving pain.

In this Lovett Dental article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the signs you may need a root canal, what the treatment involves, and how to take care of your teeth to avoid needing one in the future.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental treatment designed to treat an infection in the pulp of your tooth. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves, and once it's infected, removing it becomes crucial to save the tooth and stop the infection from spreading.

Causes of Root Canal Infections

• Bacteria: Bacteria can penetrate your tooth through cavities or cracks, leading to pulp infection.
• Trauma: Injury to the tooth from accidents or impacts can expose the nerve, leading to the need for a root canal.
• Deep Cavities: Untreated cavities can grow so deep that they expose the pulp, making a root canal the only viable option.
• Previous Dental Work: Sometimes, previous dental work like large fillings or crowns can weaken the tooth and lead to infection over time.

Signs and Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection

If you’re wondering whether you need a root canal, it's essential to recognize the symptoms. Let’s explore some key signs.

Toothache

A persistent and extreme toothache is often the most obvious sign that something is wrong. It can vary in intensity, but any lingering pain should be taken seriously.

Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

Do you wince when sipping coffee or biting into ice cream? Increased sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods, could be a red flag.

Throbbing Pain

Throbbing pain that comes and goes, or intensifies over time, is a common symptom of pulp infection. If the pain is so severe that it wakes you up at night, it's time to see a dentist.

Swelling

Swelling around the infected tooth or in the gums is a significant sign of infection.

Tenderness

Tenderness when chewing or touching the tooth could indicate the infection has spread beyond the tooth itself.

Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing could mean an infection is festering.

Discolored Tooth

If a tooth appears dark or discolored compared to the others, this may be due to a dying nerve, which signals that a root canal may be needed.

Gum Abscess

A gum abscess, particularly a pimple-like bump on the gums, often signals a severe infection.

If you notice a small bump filled with pus, it’s a sign of an infection that needs immediate attention and you can try to do something and practice self-care. Pus drainage from the bump is another alarming symptom that shouldn't be ignored.

When to See a Dentist

If you are experiencing any of these signs, it's time to visit a dentist at Lovett Dental. Ignoring the symptoms could lead to more severe complications, such as the infection spreading to other parts of your body.

The Root Canal Treatment

If you’ve been diagnosed with a root canal infection, understanding the treatment process can help alleviate any anxiety.

• Anesthesia: The treatment begins with local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth.
• Accessing the Tooth: The dentist creates a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp.
• Removing the Infected Pulp: Using specialized tools, the infected pulp is removed from the tooth’s root canals.
• Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canal: The empty canals are then cleaned and shaped to prepare for filling.
• Filling the Root Canal: The canals are filled with a rubbery material to prevent future infections.
• Sealing the Tooth: Finally, the tooth is sealed and often fitted with a crown for protection.

Recovery from a Root Canal

After the treatment, recovery is typically straightforward, but some aftereffects are to be expected.

• Pain and Discomfort: It’s normal to experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Swelling: Swelling around the treated area may occur but usually subsides within a few days.
• Sensitivity: Your tooth may be sensitive to pressure or temperature for a short period.
• Diet Restrictions: Stick to soft foods for a few days post-treatment to avoid irritating the treated area.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Be sure to attend follow-up appointments to ensure the treatment was successful and your tooth is healing properly.

Root Canal Alternatives

In some cases, a root canal might not be the best option. Here are a couple of alternatives.

• Extraction: In extreme cases, removing the infected tooth may be necessary.
• Dental Implant: After extraction, dental implants can be used to replace the missing tooth.

Root Canal Success Rate

Root canals are incredibly effective, with a 95% success rate.

• High Success Rate: When performed by a skilled dentist, root canals have an excellent track record of saving teeth.
• 95% Success Rate: This high rate means most patients can expect their treated tooth to function normally for many years.

Cost of a Root Canal

The cost of a root canal can vary based on several factors.

Factors Affecting Cost

• Severity of the Infection: More complex infections often require more extensive treatment, increasing the cost.
• Location of the Tooth: Front teeth tend to be less expensive to treat compared to molars, which have more roots.
• Need for Additional Treatment: Additional treatments like crowns can also raise the overall cost.

Insurance Coverage

May Be Partially or Fully Covered

Many dental insurance plans cover root canals, either partially or fully, depending on your coverage.

Preventing Root Canals

While root canals are effective, prevention is always better than treatment.

Good Oral Hygiene

• Brushing Twice a Day: Regular brushing helps remove plaque and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and infections.
• Flossing Daily: Flossing can reach areas that your toothbrush can’t, helping to prevent decay and infection.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Routine checkups allow your dentist to catch problems early before they become serious.

Healthy Diet

Limiting Sugary and Starchy Foods

Sugary and starchy foods fuel bacteria growth, leading to cavities and infections.

Avoiding Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol

These habits can weaken your teeth and gums, making them more susceptible to infections.

Lovett Dental: Your Trusted Dentist for Root Canals

When it comes to root canals, trust Lovett Dental to provide the best care in Texas. Our story began over 75 years ago with Dr. Jack H. Castle, a third-generation Houstonian who dedicated his life to quality dental care. His legacy lives on through Lovett, Splendid, and Haven Dentistry, where we continue to offer world-class patient care using the latest dental techniques and technology.

From routine cleanings to complex root canal treatments, we have assembled a team of board-certified specialists who cater to all your dental services needs. Whether you’re in Houston, Beaumont, Corpus Christi, or any of our other Texas locations, you’ll find a caring dentist ready to help.

We offer convenient hours, including weekends, and accept most dental insurance plans. Don’t let tooth pain go untreated—call Lovett Dental today and let us care for your smile!

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs you need a root canal early can save your tooth and prevent unnecessary pain. Whether it's throbbing tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity to hot and cold, these symptoms shouldn’t be ignored.

If you're experiencing any of these, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. And remember, Lovett Dental in Texas is here to provide the top-notch care you need to restore your smile and protect your dental health.

Schedule today.