Root Canal Symptoms
No one wants to hear the words root canal in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME. It’s one of those procedures that gets a bad reputation, even though it’s actually a highly effective way to relieve pain and save your natural tooth.
The real question is: how do you know when you need a root canal? At Gentle Dental, we’re here to break it down simply, so you can spot the signs early and get the care you need—before the problem gets worse.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. Deep inside each tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed—whether from decay, injury, or trauma—a root canal is the only way to save the tooth and stop the pain.
The procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the space, and sealing it with a filling or crown. And no, despite the myths, it’s not as painful as you might think. In fact, it’s what relieves the pain.
Top Signs You Might Need A Root Canal
If you’re dealing with any of the symptoms below, your tooth may be trying to tell you it’s in trouble:
- Persistent Tooth Pain
This is the most common and obvious sign. If you have deep, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away—or gets worse when you bite down—it could mean there’s an infection in the pulp. - Sensitivity To Hot And Cold
Do you wince when sipping coffee or eating ice cream? If the sensitivity lingers after the temperature has gone away, that’s often a red flag that something is going on inside the tooth. - Swollen Or Tender Gums
Swelling near a specific tooth, especially if it’s tender or warm to the touch, can indicate infection. You might also notice a pimple-like bump on your gum—this is called a dental abscess, and it needs attention fast. - Tooth Discoloration
A tooth that suddenly turns gray or dark compared to your other teeth could be a sign the pulp is dying inside the tooth. This can happen after trauma or ongoing decay. - Pain When Chewing Or Touching The Tooth
If it hurts to eat or even just press on the tooth lightly, it could mean the nerves are inflamed or infected beneath the surface. - A Cracked Or Chipped Tooth
A tooth that’s been damaged from trauma or injury can expose the inner pulp to bacteria, increasing your risk of infection, and making a root canal more likely.
Not All Pain Means A Root Canal—But Don’t Ignore It
Here’s the tricky part: tooth pain doesn’t always equal root canal, but it’s not something to brush off either. Sometimes, discomfort can be caused by gum issues, cavities, sinus infections, or even grinding your teeth. That’s why the only way to know for sure is to schedule an exam.
At Gentle Dental, we use digital X-rays and in-depth evaluations to determine exactly what's going on and recommend the best course of treatment.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
Delaying treatment can lead to:
- More severe infection
- Abscess formation
- Tooth loss
- Spread of infection to other parts of your body
- More complex (and expensive) procedures down the road
Root canals have a high success rate, and the sooner we treat the issue, the better the outcome.
Root Canal = Relief, Not Pain
We get it—no one lines up to get a root canal. But modern technology and gentle techniques mean the procedure is now as routine as getting a filling. Most patients report feeling immediate relief afterward. And you’ll be back to eating, talking, and smiling comfortably in no time.
Think You Might Need A Root Canal?
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above—or if something just doesn’t feel right—don’t wait it out. The earlier we catch the issue, the easier it is to treat.
Give us a call at Gentle Dental or book an appointment online. Let’s get to the root of the problem and keep your smile strong for years to come.
