A root canal might not be your favourite experience, but it can be essential for keeping your smile healthy. If you’re experiencing symptoms like pain, loose teeth, discolouration, or sensitivity, it’s time to get professional insight into what’s going on. While a root canal may sound intimidating, it can be a tooth-saving procedure. With anesthesia, most patients experience little to no pain, and significant swelling is uncommon.
Want to avoid root canals in the future? Take care of your oral health. This means regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings and exams.
What Is a Root Canal?
So, what happens during a root canal anyway? To understand this procedure, let’s review the anatomy of a tooth. Your tooth contains an inner chamber called the pulp which contains nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue. When this pulp gets inflamed or infected, a root canal can save the tooth from needing to be extracted. In short, a root canal can help you keep your natural tooth instead of needing an extraction.
A root canal can be performed by a dentist or, in trickier cases, an endodontist. The procedure typically involves:
- Opening your tooth to access the affected pulp.
- Removing and cleaning out the affected pulp.
- Filling and sealing the area.
- Restoring the tooth with a filling or crown.
You will be given anesthesia during the procedure, so you shouldn’t feel much. Serious side effects like pain or swelling are considered rare.
7 Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
The following are signs that you may need a root canal and should see a dentist as soon as possible. It can be hard to decide whether something is a dental emergency, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re unsure about what you’re dealing with.
If our office is closed, you can email our office or you can call 8-1-1 to speak to a registered nurse in Ontario. This service is free and available 24/7.
#1. Persistent Tooth Pain
Tooth pain isn’t normal, especially if it spreads to your face or jaw, or if it affects how you eat. More importantly, tooth pain indicates you might have an infection. While life-threatening complications from tooth infections are rare today, untreated infections can still become serious and should be addressed promptly. See a dentist right away if you experience tooth pain.
#2. Changes in Tooth Colour
Tooth discolouration can be a sign that the tooth’s pulp is infected. Teeth can look grey or black if they’ve been injured. A change in colour can also be a sign that there’s not enough blood flow to the tooth.
#3. Pimples or boils on the Gums
Notice a zit on your gums? This isn’t just a blemish; pimples or boils may be a sign of infection. The bump may also ooze pus. This can be unpleasant and also warrants a trip to the dentist.
#4. Swelling
Swollen jaws and swollen gums can also be signs of infection. Swollen gums may also be painful to touch. A dentist may also check for swelling when they examine you.
#5. Sensitivity to Temperature
If eating ice cream or drinking hot soup causes pain, something may be wrong with the blood vessels and nerves in your teeth. This pain can feel either sharp or dull, and if it persists even after you stop eating or drinking, you may have a condition that requires a root canal.
Tooth sensitivity may be due to worn-down enamel, but it’s still a good idea to visit a dentist to see what’s wrong. A dental treatment like bonding or sealant can help make eating and drinking more comfortable.
#6. Damaged Teeth
A cracked or chipped tooth can put you at increased risk of an infected pulp. Teeth can be injured through contact sports or other accidents. Even if you don’t see a crack or chip, the trauma can still impact the nerves and lead to a root canal.
#7. Loose Teeth
Finally, a loose tooth can also signal an infection. Looseness that affects more than one tooth is less likely to require a root canal treatment, but you should still see your dentist.
Help Prevent Root Canals With Good Oral Hygiene
Root canals are safe and common, but most people would prefer to avoid them. If you want to prevent a root canal in the future, prioritize your oral health. You can do this by:
- Brushing at least twice a day
- Flossing at least once a day
- Limiting sugary foods
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating sweets, and wait 30–60 minutes before brushing.
You should also schedule regular dental exams and professional cleanings. According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), many people benefit from a dental visit every 6 months.
At Marks Dentistry, we’re committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment for every patient. Whether you need restorative care or are interested in cosmetic options, our team is here to help. Book your appointment at our Etobicoke clinic today.
