Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy

Are you avoiding the dentist because you are afraid you’ll need a root canal? You may want to reconsider. Not only are you setting yourself up for worsening pain, but you may lose your tooth if it’s badly infected. Root canal therapy is one of the most effective and time-tested procedures in dentistry. Not only do modern dental techniques make this procedure gentle, but a root canal may be the only way to bring you out of pain and save your infected tooth.

Only a dentist can accurately evaluate your need for root canal therapy. However, these are five typical signs that this endodontic treatment could be your solution to a healthy pain-free smile:

Persistent Tooth Pain

This is often severe discomfort that seems to worsen and even feel like it is spreading to the underlying bone or nearby teeth.

Sensitive Teeth

A common dental issue that does not always warrant root canal therapy. However, an infected tooth will typically be sensitive to hot/cold elements.

Bleeding or Discharge

When there is an abscess in the mouth, it points to a serious oral infection that needs prompt treatment.

Red, Tender or Swollen Gums

Such periodontal issues can mean that the infection has spread into the tooth’s pulp, the sensitive innermost layer of a tooth that contains nerve endings.

Difficulty Chewing

Pain when biting down on a tooth can be an early warning of tooth infection.

What to Expect During a Root Canal?

First and foremost, let go of the myth and assumption that root canal therapy is painful. The truth is, this procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a dental filling. Instead, root canals are what alleviate the excruciating pain from an infected tooth. The procedure involves local anesthetics and possible sedatives to help you relax while your dentist removes the infected tooth pulp from inside your tooth. The tooth is sanitized to prevent future infection and filled with a special dental material for added protection. In most cases, a dental crown is placed on the affected tooth to help it regain its full integrity and strength. Most patients are able to resume their regular activities the day after their root cana,l and any temporary discomfort is managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

If you are concerned that you have an infected tooth that needs attention, don’t wait. Call Dream Dentist to learn how you can save your tooth with gentle, modern root canal therapy at our O’Fallon office.


Dream Dentist
1646 W U.S. 50
O'Fallon, IL 62269
(618) 726-2699