How Do You Know When You Are In Need Of A Root Canal?

Root canals are often performed as a last resort to save a tooth that has become severely infected. Once infection reaches the inner chamber of a tooth, a root canal becomes necessary. Dentists in Fort Worth, Texas, like Dr. Spencer Hoyt at Fort Worth Dental Arts, are able to provide painless root canal treatment for patients in need. But how do you know if you need a root canal?

Common signs that indicate a need for a root canal, known clinically as endodontic treatment, typically revolve around pain, sensitivity, and changes in the tooth’s appearance or function. Below are some key indicators, followed by an overview of what occurs during the root canal procedure.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

1. Severe Toothache: Persistent, throbbing pain in the tooth or jaw when chewing or otherwise applying pressure can indicate an infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp.
2. Gum Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling and tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth may indicate an abscess, a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection.
3. Discoloration: Darkening or discoloration of the tooth, particularly if it appears gray or black, can indicate damage to the tooth’s nerve or blood vessels.
4. Prolonged Sensitivity: Lingering sensitivity or pain in response to stimuli, such as pressure, hot or cold, that lasts for an extended period could indicate an underlying issue requiring treatment.

Root Canal Procedure

Once it has been determined that you need a root canal, you may wonder what that entails. The steps you can expect are as follows:

1. Assessment and Diagnosis: Your dentist will begin with an examination of the tooth. X-rays may be necessary to determine the extent of damage or infection. Based on the findings, the following steps (including a possible root canal) will be determined.
2. Anesthesia: Anesthesia will be used to numb the affected area during the procedure. This is necessary to make sure the treatment is as comfortable as possible.
3. Accessing the Pulp: A hole will then be drilled at the top of the crown so that the inner chamber and pulp can be accessed. This may involve drilling through the enamel and dentin layers.
4. Disinfection: Specialized instruments are used to remove the infected pulp from within the inner chamber of the tooth and any impacted root canals.
5. Filling and Sealing: After the canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material to replace the removed pulp. The opening in the crown is sealed with a filling to prevent recontamination.
6. Restoration: Depending on the extent of damage to the tooth, a crown or other restoration may be placed to restore its strength, function, and appearance.

You can reach Dr. Hoyt and the team at Fort Worth Dental Arts by calling (817) 529-1600.

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