At Softouch Dental Care, Dr. Michael Chung, a dentist with over 20 years of experience, understands how crucial it is to address these symptoms promptly. He also offers treatments like root canals to save teeth with damaged or infected pulp.
Do you suspect you need a root canal to manage discomfort and prevent more extensive problems? Discover some of the most well-known warning signs below.
Persistent Tooth Pain
One of the most common signs you might need a root canal is ongoing tooth pain.
This discomfort can come in many forms. It may range from dull and achy to sharp and intense. It might also worsen when chewing or applying pressure to the affected tooth.
Persistent pain often indicates damage or infection deep within the tooth.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks could be a symptom of nerve damage or an infected tooth. Fleeting sensitivity is usually harmless. Conversely, pain that lingers long after the temperature exposure should not be ignored.
Swelling or Tenderness
Swelling around the gums or tenderness near a specific tooth may signal an infection in the tooth’s pulp or surrounding tissues. Left untreated, this swelling can spread and cause additional complications, including abscesses (painful, pus-filled lumps).
Tooth Discoloration
A tooth that appears darker than the surrounding teeth could suggest pulp damage or decay. This discoloration occurs when the tooth’s inner tissues break down. When this happens, a root canal is required to restore dental health.
Recurring Pimples on the Gums
Small bumps or pimples near the affected tooth often point to an abscess caused by infection. These bumps may leak pus or fluid, further confirming the need for immediate dental care.
Don’t Delay Treatment
If you ignore these signs, you may experience more severe symptoms or even tooth loss. At Softouch Dental Care, Dr. Chung specializes in gentle, effective root canal treatments that relieve discomfort and restore your smile.
Don’t let tooth pain and sensitivity control your life. Call 703-319-6990 or send us a message to schedule an appointment in Oakton, VA, today.
