3 Signs You May Need a Root Canal

3 Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Do You Need a Root Canal?

Although many of our patients are seeking cosmetic procedures such as teeth straightening options in Philadelphia, others need emergency treatments such as root canals. Thanks to modern technology such as X-Ray machines and filling materials, root canals are fairly straightforward solutions that save teeth from being extracted.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

During a root canal, a patient is x-rayed in order to look inside their teeth and see just how much decay is causing problems and pain for the tooth in question. Depending on the depth of the decay, the dentist may decide to drill down to the nerve inside the tooth and remove the nerve from the tooth. By removing the nerve, the tooth no longer has any feeling, and therefore the patient can keep the tooth, without experiencing any more pain.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal:

Excessive Tooth Pain:

Tooth pain is primarily the first indicator that you may need to consider root canal treatment. However, root canal pain differs from generic tooth pain because it often increases in intensity and worsens when biting down, eating, or with even minor pressure.

Extreme Sensitivity:

Although many people have sensitive teeth, this doesn’t mean that everybody needs a root canal. However, those who do need a root canal will often have extreme sensitivity that simply doesn’t go away once a hot or cold element is removed from their mouth. The pain from the sensitivity tends to linger around for a while.

Inflamed Gums:

When a patient needs a root canal, it’s not just their teeth that show symptoms. The gums surrounding the tooth in question may also show signs that a root canal is needed. In most cases, the gums are painful or swollen, they may also have a raised bump known as a sinus on them.

Whether you think that you may need a root canal, or if you’re looking for an orthodontist located in Center City Philadelphia, contact Center City Emergency Dentist here today. Our team of dedicated dental professionals is on hand 24/7 to offer you advice and book you in for appointments.