If you woke up this morning with alarming oral health symptoms including a toothache, pain, or something that just doesn’t feel right, you might want to search for a dentist who offers root canal therapy in Somerset.
While it is impossible to diagnose the need for a root canal without a complete exam, there are three signs that point to the presence of an infection and root canals can save teeth. You might have some anxiety about seeking treatment because you have heard that root canals are painful. At Southern Dental Group, however, we practice gentle, pain-free dentistry.
Swelling in Your Gums, Jaw, or Face
Any type of inflammation is a sign that something is wrong and indicates the presence of an infection. An infection on the inside of the root, near the nerve, can feel quite painful. Swelling may worsen over time, or come and go, but will rarely resolve without professional dental treatment. Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication will help with symptoms but will not heal the problem.
When left untreated, you might face tooth loss or require extraction.
Throbbing Pain, Sensitivity, or Pressure
Throbbing pain, especially when lying down, can indicate inflammation and infection even if swelling is not yet visible. Sensitivity, to heat especially, indicates infection and might feel worse when biting down.
Pressure can mean that bacteria are reproducing rapidly within the tooth. An x-ray will often reveal dark areas that show the buildup of infection.
Discolored Tooth
Sometimes an injury can damage the nerve inside the root canal of your tooth. Often, the tooth will develop a dark hue. Internal bleaching or a veneer can restore the color. For a posterior tooth, we will usually recommend a dental crown to restore the color and provide stability to prolong the life of the tooth.
If you think you might need a root canal and live in Somerset or the surrounding communities, give us a call to book a consultation with Dr. Michael Pope.