When Are Root Canals Necessary?
The answer to “when” a root canal is necessary will be relative to your unique situation. The pulp inside your teeth fills a very important function – generating dentin and ensuring that each tooth gets the nutrients it requires. In some cases, this pulp gets infected. Given that the pulp consists of a significant amount of nerve tissue, this irritation can lead to tooth discomfort.
Root canals remove the infected material, alleviating pain while preventing the infection from spreading. Pulp typically gets infected when an opening in the tooth allows bacteria to enter.
This often occurs due to a:
- Chip
- Crack
- Cavity
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
An infected tooth can show itself in a few different ways. Some of the most common signs include:
- Tooth pain that lingers or keeps coming back
- Pain when you bite down or chew
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that stays after you finish eating or drinking
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums around the tooth
Some infections cause few symptoms at first, which is one reason regular checkups matter. If you notice any of these signs, request an appointment so we can find the cause and talk through your options.