Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. It involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system, and then filling and sealing the space to prevent further infection.

Root canal treatment is often misunderstood. It's not the painful procedure many imagine; rather, it's a pain-relieving treatment. With modern techniques and anesthesia, patients typically experience minimal discomfort.

When the pulp inside your tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged, a root canal is necessary to save the tooth and prevent further issues such as abscesses or spread of infection.

Sign #1: Persistent Pain

Persistent pain is one of the most common signs that a root canal may be needed. This pain can be constant or intermittent, and it may worsen when you lie down or apply pressure to the tooth.

The pain is typically caused by damage to the nerve within the tooth, which can result from decay, injury, or a crack in the tooth.

Sign #2: Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

If your tooth is sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, it may be a sign that the nerves and blood vessels in your tooth are infected or damaged. This sensitivity may present as a sharp, acute pain or a dull ache.

The pulp of your tooth can become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, large fillings, a chip or crack in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

Sign #3: Tooth Discoloration

A tooth that has become discolored may indicate that the pulp inside the tooth is dead or dying. This can cause a grayish or black appearance.

Discoloration often suggests that there has been significant damage to the internal tissues of the tooth, which may require a root canal to prevent further damage.

Sign #4: Swollen Gums

Swollen gums around a tooth can be a sign of infection that has spread from the tooth to the surrounding tissues. The swelling may be accompanied by tenderness or pain.

Healthy gums are a key part of oral health. Swelling or tenderness in the gums, especially if it's localized around a particular tooth, could indicate a problem that extends to the root of the tooth.

Sign #5: Pain When Eating or Touching the Tooth

If biting down or touching your tooth causes pain, it could be a sign that the tooth's root or nerve is damaged. This type of pain can indicate that the structural integrity of the tooth has been compromised, necessitating a root canal.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek professional advice. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to saving the tooth and preventing further complications.