Telltale Signs You Need a Root Canal

Although everyone actually has a root canal, there are two types of root canals to be aware of. When you want to know what the telltale signs are that would indicate a root canal is necessary, you are referring to the when a dentist or endodontist removes the damaged/infected pulp where the nerves and blood vessels reside.

The tooth is then filled, cemented and typically crowned. However, a root canal can also refer to the inner portion within the root where the pulp is located, and those nerves and blood vessels reside. Once adult teeth have emerged, those nerves serve little purpose than to be sensitive to extremes in heat and cold. Therefore, you really don’t need that kind of root canal, but you may, indeed, need a root canal treatment.

Are You Experiencing Severe and Prolonged Pain?

One of the things most dentists would like you to know is that you should get an appointment the moment you have any kind of dental pain whatsoever, even if it subsides in a day or two. There is obviously a problem causing the pain and if it isn’t cared for initially, it could result in damage to the pulp which would then require extraction or a root canal.

Is the Tooth Discolored and Turning Black?

Even if you are not yet in pain, do you have one or more teeth turning dark grey or black? If so, make an appointment with your dentist without delay. Once the pain sets in you will wish you had, and believe it or not, if your teeth are turning black (other than from a licorice habit), you will soon know the extent of that pain. Black teeth indicate the roots are in serious trouble and you will almost certainly need a root canal.

Are You Becoming Inordinately Sensitive to Hot and Cold?

As mentioned, adult teeth no longer really need those nerves and blood vessels because the teeth are fully grown. Those nerves, however, do serve a purpose in being sensitive to temperatures and if that sensitivity becomes extreme, there is probably something going on in there which should be seen to immediately.

Signs Only Visible to Your Dentist

One telltale sign which is only going to be visible to a dentist is after routine X-rays are taken in the office. They will be able to detect any problems which haven’t yet caused any pain or sensitivity but will certainly do so in the future. Sometimes it’s years before those issues cause you distress and other times it’s like a ticking time bomb ready to wreak havoc at the slightest provocation, like a deepening cavity or an injury to the tooth.

If you notice any of these telltale signs of needing a route canal, contact us without delay. As the most trusted root canal specialists in New York City, we will be able to help you determine what should be done. Do you need a root canal? We’ll help you find the answer because that is our specialty.

Don’t wait around until pain strikes if you can get seen before that happens. There is no need to suffer when we are here to help. Call us today at 646-205-3045 to schedule an appointment.