For a severely infected tooth, a root canal is often the best treatment option. While the procedure has an intimidating reputation, modern anesthesia and techniques make it a comfortable process which provides relief from the pain of infection in your inner tooth pulp. Furthermore, quick treatment will help prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth. For this reason, it’s important to watch for the signs of an infected tooth and report them to your Perry, GA, dentist, Dr. Michael L. Kinsley, D.M.D.

Signs Your Tooth Pulp Is Infected

1. Tender Gums

While not always due to an infected tooth, tender gums are not normal or healthy. Even if the cause is simple gingivitis, it’s important to discuss this symptom with your dentist—especially since it may be a sign of something worse.

2. Tooth Pain

This is often the first sign of something wrong with your tooth. The pain is often greater when pressure is placed on the tooth, such as while chewing. Even if the pain stops, you should talk to your dentist about it.

3. Sensitivity to Temperature

Sensitivity to heat or cold is common even in healthy teeth, but if the sensitivity is new or lingers when the hot or cold item is removed, it’s a cause for concern. While not always due to infection, this type of sensitivity is worth reporting at your next teeth cleaning appointment.

4. Darkening of the Tooth

This is a surefire sign that something is wrong, especially if the tooth is different in color from those around it. The darkening of the tooth can be due to the death of its inner tissues, leaving a space which then provides a haven for bacteria in the mouth,

5. A Bump on the Gums

When the root of a tooth is infected, it can create abscesses in the surrounding tissue, which sometimes result in a small, pimple-like bump becoming visible on the gums. Once again, this is a serious sign and is worth an immediate dental exam.

If you watch for these signs and visit your dentist regularly, you have a much better chance of overcoming infections through a root canal before more serious damage occurs. If you’re experiencing any of these signs or are overdue for an appointment, call Dr. Michael L. Kinsley, D.M.D. today at (478) 987-1441 or request an appointment online.