woman holds her jaw in pain with a root canal infection

Signs That Show I May Need Root Canal Therapy

Published October 24, 2022 7:03 pm

There are many reasons why you might have a toothache. So how do you know it’s time to go to your dentist? It turns out a toothache is just one of the many signs of an infected root, which requires root canal therapy to heal. Let’s take a look at some of the most common signs of a root infection.

Toothache

A strong toothache is often one of the most common signs of a root infection. This is because bacteria have made its way down to the root of your tooth, causing uncomfortable swelling. You might even develop an abscess near the root, which can cause even more pain.

Bad Taste in Mouth

If you’re getting a strange, bitter taste in your mouth, you may have a root infection because of the bacteria entering your mouth.

Bad Breath

Halitosis, or bad breath, can be a sign of a root infection because of the bacteria circulating around your mouth.

Tooth Sensitivity

When an infection spreads throughout your tooth, it can weaken the enamel that protects it, making your tooth more sensitive to cold and hot temperatures.

Altered Appearance of Tooth

If your tooth is chipped, cracked, or darker in appearance, this can be a sign of a widespread infection.

Swollen Gums

Painful, swollen, and red gums can be a sign of an infected root.

Root Canal Therapy Procedure

You might think that root canal therapy is painful or long, but we can assure you that a root infection is far more painful than the procedure itself! During root canal therapy, your dentist will first numb the area around the tooth, so you feel comfortable and pain-free throughout your treatment. They will then drill a small hole into the surface of your tooth to access the infected tissue and drain it completely. To seal your tooth, they will fill your tooth with a substance called gutta percha that will act as new, healthy tissue. Finally, depending on the state of your natural tooth, you may receive a crown to prevent it from future infections.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact our Gypsum, Colorado dental office right away! Our mission is to provide our patients with top-notch, affordable service. We look forward to caring for your smile!

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