Tackling Your Dental Treatment Plan

Every year, over 15 million root canals are performed in the U.S. alone. If your dentist has suggested a root canal treatment, there's no need to panic, as you'll be undergoing a procedure that has been done on millions of people with proven results. 

A root canal is a procedure performed on teeth that are badly decayed or infected. Your dentist or endodontist removes the infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of your tooth, disinfects the area using antibiotics, fills the empty root, and finally seals the space to prevent tooth decay. 

While the only sure way to know whether you need a root canal is to visit a dentist, here are four warning signs that may indicate it's time. 

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

If your tooth gets chipped or cracked in an accident or while you are playing your favorite sport, it may not take much time before bacteria sets in. If ignored, the bacteria can cause an infection or inflammation to the inside pulp, and the only option to save the tooth may be a root canal. 

Also, if your tooth is injured but there's no visible sign of a chip or crack, a root canal may still be needed. That's because the injury may have damaged the nerves, causing deep inflammation. That's why it's always advisable to seek a dental checkup after an accident. 

Deep Decay

When your tooth has deep decay, no amount of brushing or flossing will solve the problem. With time, the decay spreads into the root or nerve of the tooth, and you may need a root canal treatment before a crown is installed. 

The good news is that deep decay can be avoided by visiting your dentist regularly. Any possible infection that can cause decay can then be caught early and treated before it becomes a bigger issue. 

Increased Sensitivity to Heat and/or Cold

If you continuously experience heightened sensitivity after drinking hot tea or coffee or after eating cold food like ice cream, there's cause for alarm. Sometimes, what starts as sensitivity progresses into a sharp pain. You may find that you have to shift foods from one side of the mouth to another to avoid a painful tooth. 

In most cases, the sensitivity is a sign that nerves or blood vessels in a tooth are damaged or infected. And if the infection or damage is inside the pulp, a root canal may be your best treatment option. 

Severe Pain

Severe pain inside your mouth may be caused by different issues, including periodontal disease, a damaged filling, a cavity, or an infection. But in most cases, root canal pain is different. If you experience spontaneous pain that hits you in sudden waves, you may be dealing with a damaged tooth that needs root canal treatment.   

Contact a dentist to learn more.