You visit your dentist for a routine checkup. You expect nothing but good news because your mouth feels fine, and you have been doing your best to care for your teeth. But you are surprised when you receive the news that you need to undergo a root canal in Plymouth! What are some common signs that root canal therapy is necessary, and why is this treatment recommended in some cases even when no pain is present? Read on below to learn the answers.
Common Indications for Root Canal Therapy
Severe, throbbing pain in a tooth commonly indicates an infection in the tooth’s pulp, its innermost layer. If you are experiencing this symptom, you may be eager to accept your dentist’s treatment recommendations because root canal therapy is an effective way to end dental pain.
However, pain is not the only sign that a root canal might be necessary. Other indications include:
- A tooth that is darker than the ones around it
- A chip or crack in a tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, and pressure
No Pain? You Still Might Need Root Canal Therapy
Even if you are not experiencing any obvious signs or symptoms of a dental problem, your dentist may recommend treatment for one of the following reasons:
- There is an early infection. An X-ray may reveal a problem within a tooth that has not yet caused enough damage to lead to obvious pain. Consenting to treatment as early as possible may spare you from future discomfort.
- A tooth is dead. When the nerve inside a tooth dies, it can no longer send pain signals to the brain. However, the infection can continue to spread and cause problems. Root canal therapy can stop the issue from worsening.
- A tooth needs a crown. A dentist may determine that a tooth needs a crown. However, because of a large filling or extensive damage to a tooth, it may not have adequate structure to support a crown as it is. During root canal therapy, your dentist can clean out the tooth’s interior and place a post in it to provide support for your crown.
Do Not Wait to Be in Pain
Of course, there is nothing wrong with seeking a second opinion if you have some qualms about your dentist’s recommendation that you undergo root canal therapy. However, keep in mind what consequences may occur if you postpone necessary treatment for too long. The damage to your tooth is likely to worsen. In fact, it may progress to the point where extraction is the best course of action. If you wait until you are in pain to seek care, it may already be too late to save your tooth.
The news that you need root canal therapy can come as a surprise, especially if you are not in pain. However, you can be sure that your dentist’s treatment recommendation stems from years of training and a deep interest in your well-being.
Meet the Practice
The dentists and staff members at Aveni Dental Professionals are proud to offer root canal therapy and other restorative procedures in a welcoming environment. We strive to recommend treatments only if they are truly necessary. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, get in touch at 508-217-7454.