Thanks to advanced technology and modern techniques, most root canals don’t take much longer than getting a filling. Although local anesthesia makes the procedure painless, nervous, fearful, or anxious patients also have the option of requesting sedation such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to promote relaxation during the procedure. So, if you’re experiencing any of the 3 main signs that you may need a root canal, don’t delay scheduling a dental exam. A root canal now can spare you additional pain, expenses, and worsening oral health in the future.
Tooth Pain Is a Leading Indicator that You May Need a Root Canal
Tooth pain is the most common indication that there is a problem with a tooth. Although tooth pain can also be caused by cavities or a damaged dental restoration such as a loose filling, teeth that need root canals may cause sharp, or throbbing pain, particularly when chewing. The pain may be ongoing or sporadic. It may feel as if it is coming from deep within the bone of the tooth. In other cases, the pain may be referred (felt) in other areas, such as your jaw or nearby teeth.
New Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Foods is a Leading Sign That There is a Problem Inside the Tooth
If you’ve always enjoyed a hot cup of coffee in the morning, or a cold dish of ice cream at night, but now hot or cold foods cause you to wince, you may need a root canal. Root canals are necessary to treat infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth. If you have inflamed or infected pulp, the extreme temperatures often aggravate blood vessels and nerves in the affected tooth. New onset of tooth sensitivity is one of the three main signs that you may need a root canal.
A Cracked Tooth is Often a Sign That You Need a Root Canal
Believe it or not, although many people can pinpoint the accident or injury that caused their tooth to crack, others have no idea they have a cracked tooth until the crack is found during a dental exam. Cracked teeth frequently require a root canal to protect the interior of the tooth from a bacterial infection. A root canal not only prevents bacteria from being able to enter the pulp of the tooth but preserves your natural tooth by covering it with a dental crown. Large chips in teeth, where a portion of the tooth has cracked off may also be a sign that you need a root canal.
More Signs and Symptoms that You May Need a Root Canal
All patients are different, so although pain, new tooth sensitivity, or a crack in a tooth are common signs that you need a root canal, there are many other warning signs and symptoms, including:
- Tender gums
- Swollen gums
- Darkening gums
- Pimple-like bumps on the gums
- Loosening of a tooth
- Tooth discoloration
Book an Appointment for Tooth Pain in Lindenwold, NJ
Tooth pain is a sign you need to see a dentist as soon as possible. Problems with the teeth that cause pain do not get better without treatment. To book an appointment at Lindenwold Dental Center, call 856-783-3777, or send us a message. To best accommodate busy patients, we offer appointments on Saturdays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Insurance Pay for Root Canals?
All dental insurance policies are a bit different. Contact your provider to find out if your policy covers root canal therapy. Lindenwold Dental Center accepts most PPO insurance policies, union policies, and local policies. For patients who do not have insurance, we accept all major credit cards, and financing through CareCredit
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
Root canals typically take between 30-60 minutes. A good rule of thumb is to plan to be at the dentist for 90 minutes, to account for procedure prep time and the time it takes for the local anesthesia to begin working.