While root canal treatments are safe and common, it is important to take an infection of the pulp inside your tooth seriously. Without proper dental care, an untreated, infected root canal can cause the disease to spread throughout your mouth. To prevent the removal of multiple teeth, the family dental care and oral surgery team at Magnolia Dental in Waynesboro, VA, recommends knowing the signs that a root canal is needed.

Unsure if you should make an appointment with your dentist to discuss your symptoms? Their staff explains the top indicators of an impending root canal below.

5 Signs a Root Canal Is Necessary 

1. Tooth Pain 

Do you experience severe tooth pain when you chew food or brush your teeth? Pain after applying pressure to the tooth is a sign that its inner pulp is infected. If you have pain in your tooth or teeth that will not go away, call your dentist right away.

2. Sensitivity 

If you have tooth sensitivity after you are finished with your morning coffee or evening ice cream, your root canal is trying to tell you something. Talk to your dental care team if your teeth are sensitive, even when you use special toothpaste or resist hot foods and cold beverages. 

3. Shading 

Another sign of a root canal infection is a tooth that is darker than normal. If you notice sudden discoloration — especially accompanied with pain, sensitivity, or swelling — call your dentist’s office. 

4. Swelling 

Swelling of the gums around the infected tooth or teeth is another sign that a root canal treatment is needed. To an oral surgeon, inflammation is an indication of infection. Call them at the first sign of swelling in your mouth. 

5. Bumps 

A bump resembling a pimple on the gum near a painful tooth may mean you have an infected root canal. If you notice a new blemish that is not caused by another known condition or injury, you need further examination. 

Timing is important when it comes to the diagnosis of an infected tooth. To make an appointment to discuss a root canal, call Magnolia Dental in Waynesboro at (540) 943-2723. For more information about oral surgery and family dental care, visit their website or Facebook page.