When you visit your dentist for your routine biannual exam, you may expect good news. After all, your mouth feels fine, and you have been taking good care of your smile. It might come as a big surprise, then, when you learn that you require a major treatment. Continue reading this blog post to discover why you might need a root canal even if you are not in pain.
Common Indications for Root Canal Therapy
The need for root canal therapy is often preceded by a severe, throbbing toothache. This pain occurs when an infection irritates the innermost layer of a tooth, called its pulp. If you are experiencing such a symptom, you might be eager to undergo a root canal because it could end your pain.
However, pain is only one possible sign that treatment is necessary. Other indications that you might need a root canal include:
- There is significant damage to a tooth, such as a chip or deep crack.
- A tooth is darker than the ones around it.
- There is a bump on the gums that resembles a pimple.
- You are experiencing extreme dental sensitivity to hot, cold, and pressure.
No Symptoms? You Still Might Need Root Canal Therapy
What if you are not experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms? There is still the possibility that you require root canal therapy. Here are a few reasons why it might be necessary:
- You have a new infection. An X-ray could reveal that you have a new infection developing within your tooth. It may not yet be advanced enough to cause pain or other symptoms. Undergoing timely treatment could spare you from a future toothache.
- The nerve inside a tooth has died. When the nerve in a tooth dies, it becomes incapable of sending pain signals to the brain. However, the infection that killed the nerve could still be present. It may continue to spread if you do not get root canal therapy.
- You need a crown. A damaged tooth may require a crown. Root canal therapy can allow your dentist to place a post inside the tooth so it will be able to provide a strong base of support for your new restoration.
Do Not Wait to Be in Pain
If you are somewhat skeptical of your dentist’s recommendation that you undergo a root canal, it is fine to seek a second opinion. Just remember that the longer you wait for treatment, the greater the risk that you will lose your tooth altogether. Your quick action could spare you from a brand-new gap in your smile!
Meet the Practice
The general dentists and specialists at Comprehensive Dental Associates of Central Connecticut proudly provide root canal therapy and a range of other treatments in our modern, inviting office. If you have questions about how we may be able to serve you, give us a call at 860-288-5786.