5 Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

If your teeth hurt or just feel off, don’t brush it off. That pain is usually your body’s way of telling you something’s wrong, and sometimes, it’s serious enough to need a root canal. Root canals get a bad rap, but honestly, they’re what saves a tooth when infection or damage goes deep. The key is to catch the warning signs early, before things spiral out of control. Here’s what you should look out for:

1. Intense Tooth Pain

This one’s hard to miss. If you’ve intense pain in a tooth, especially when you bite down or chew, pay attention. Sometimes the pain comes and goes, but often, it just hangs around and gets worse. Usually, it’s the inside of your tooth—the pulp—getting inflamed or infected. If the pain is sharp, throbbing, and persistent, it’s time to see a dentist.

2. Tooth Sensitivity That Lingers

Ever get that zing from hot coffee or ice cream? Some sensitivity is normal, but if the ache sticks around long after you finish eating or drinking, that’s a warning sign. It means the nerves inside your tooth are on edge, probably due to infection or damage. Don’t just hope it’ll go away.

3. Swollen or Sore Gums

Notice a swollen patch or tenderness near a tooth? Maybe there’s a little bump on your gumline. Swelling and these pimple-like bumps can mean infection is spreading beneath the surface. Sometimes, that bump is an abscess, which can be a serious condition. Ignoring it can lead to tooth loss or even extensive health issues. Don’t wait—see your dentist for a root canal.

4. Tooth Looks Darker Than the Rest

If one tooth has started looking gray or brown compared to the others, don’t chalk it up to coffee stains. When the inside of a tooth dies or becomes infected, the entire tooth can darken. It’s usually a sign that the nerve is in trouble. If you notice this, schedule an appointment and have it checked out.

5. A Recurring Pimple on Your Gums

Got a weird little bump on your gums that keeps coming back? Sometimes it leaks, tastes bad, or smells funky. That’s often a sign of an abscess—a pocket of pus from infection deep inside the tooth. This is your body’s attempt to eliminate the disease. It’s not going to fix itself, and it needs fast treatment, usually a root canal, to save the tooth.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

If you’re facing any of these symptoms, you probably want to know what a root canal actually involves. Your dentist removes the infected pulp inside the tooth, cleans it out, and seals it to prevent further infection. After that, they’ll usually add a crown or filling to protect the tooth and keep it functioning normally. The pain you had should disappear.

How to Avoid Root Canals in the First Place

Of course, nobody wants a root canal if possible. Brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly (twice a year) all help prevent infections. If something feels wrong, don’t ignore it. Getting checked out early can save you a lot of trouble.

If any of these warning signs sound familiar, don’t put off that dental visit. At Arbor Dental Group, we’re here to help—no judgment, just real solutions. Book an appointment and let’s figure out the best way to get you smiling again.

FAQs

1. What causes the need for a root canal?
Root canals are usually necessary when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or trauma to the tooth.

2. Does a root canal hurt?
Contrary to popular belief, root canals are not painful. Modern techniques and anesthesia ensure that the procedure is comfortable and effective at relieving pain.

3. How long does a root canal take?
The procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s condition and the complexity of the case.

4. Can a root canal fail?
While rare, it’s possible for a root canal to fail if the tooth becomes reinfected. This can occur if bacteria re-enter the tooth due to poor oral hygiene or inadequate sealing after the procedure.