Root canal treatment is applied to eliminate bacteria from a root canal that is infected to save the natural tooth and prevent reinfection. When the root canal treatment is performed, the infected and damaged pulp of the tooth will be removed, and the inside of the tooth will be cleaned and sealed. It is crucial to recognize the signs that indicate you might need a root canal. In this blog, we will explore common symptoms that indicate you need a root canal for yourself.

1. Persistent and Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent and severe tooth pain are signs you may need root canal treatment. Pain in your teeth might be all the time, it may repeat from time to time, or you may feel referred pain in your face, jaw, or in your other teeth. Such discomfort is typically due to inflammation or infection of the tooth’s pulp, which can only be addressed with a root canal procedure.
2. Discoloration of the Tooth: A tooth that has undergone changes in color, such as darkening or graying, might need a root canal. Discoloration occurs when the pulp inside the tooth is affected by decay or trauma, causing the tooth to lose its vitality.
3. Sensitivity to Heat or Cold: Another common sign that you might need a root canal is tooth sensitivity. If you feel pain in your tooth while you are drinking or eating something hot or cold, you might need a root canal. While mild sensitivity can be normal, if the pain lingers even after the hot or cold stimulus is removed, it might indicate that the tooth’s pulp is infected or inflamed.
4. Gum Swelling: Swollen gums near the painful tooth can be a sign of an issue that requires a root canal to remove the infection and prevent further damage.
5. Persistent Bad Breath: Sometimes your bad breath that doesn’t improve with proper oral hygiene might be an indicator of an underlying dental issue, including an infected tooth. The bacteria causing the infection can lead to persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing regularly.
6. Chipped or Cracked Tooth: If you have cracked or chipped your tooth by eating hard foods or an accident, bacteria can appear and cause an infection. An infection in a tooth’s root can enter the bloodstream and spread. To remove such an untreated infection, a root canal treatment is required to prevent infection and pain.
7. Loose Tooth: If you notice that a tooth has become loose without any apparent reason, it could be due to damage or infection in the tooth’s internal structure. A root canal may be necessary to address the issue and stabilize the tooth.

Ignoring the signs that suggest you might need a root canal can lead to further dental complications, severe pain, and the potential loss of the affected tooth. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to schedule an appointment promptly with your dentist. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination and determine whether a root canal is the best course of action to save the tooth and restore your oral health.