It’s common for many patients to assume a root canal will be recommended if serious tooth pain exists. In reality, several other symptoms can indicate a problem, even if severe discomfort isn’t one of them. While you may be surprised to hear your dentist suggest this type of treatment, read on to learn why moving forward with the procedure is essential if you want to avoid possible extraction later on.
Why Doesn’t Pain Always Occur When a Root Canal is Recommended?
Pain might be the most common symptom when discovering you need a root canal, but it’s not the only one.
This procedure is designed to address an infection that is within the innermost layer of a tooth, whether there is pain or not. Not all contagions or damage cause extreme discomfort. It may be that:
- The tooth’s nerve may be “dead,” which means it cannot alert you to pain
- There is damage to the tooth that has occurred over time, and discomfort has yet to form
- Dental decay reached the pulp, but is not causing symptoms to form
Which Other Symptoms Point to a Necessary Root Canal?
If you are not feeling any pain, but your dentist believes your tooth requires saving with a root canal, it’s likely because:
- You are complaining about tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
- You have a tooth that is chipped or cracked
- You have a tooth that is severely discolored because of bad oral hygiene, dark-colored foods, or nerve damage
- Deep decay has formed and spread to the pulp
Will a Root Canal Hurt?
Do not let the myths and misinformation about root canals cause you to assume that your procedure will induce additional pain. You will receive local anesthesia before your dentist begins to treat the problem tooth.
Once you are numb and feel no pain in the treatment chair, the dentist will begin clearing out the infected pulp and diseased areas before filling and sealing the tooth off. This prevents future infection and protects the newly cleaned space before a customized dental crown is placed on top.
Don’t let pain be your only guide when it comes to your oral health. It is only one symptom, so if you want to make sure you know when to reach out for help, learn what else you should look for that will have you seeking the professional care that is required to keep your smile and overall well-being intact.
About Grand Dental – Lockport
Grand Dental – Lockport consists of multiple dental experts who are here to make sure you get the treatment and service you need, even if you are not complaining about tooth pain. Although one of the more common symptoms is associated with root canals, our team wants to remind you that it’s not the only one you should consider. We’ll evaluate your smile and look for additional signs that might indicate a more serious problem deep within a tooth. If we find one, we’ll make sure you understand the process of how we plan to fix it, so visit our website or call (815) 240-8068 and let us help you save your smile.