Are you unsure if you require a root canal treatment? Our dentists in Sydney are here to help. Keep an eye out for these 3 signs, as they could indicate that you need a root canal.
About Root Canals
During a root canal procedure, the inner parts of a tooth that connect the pulp to the roots are cleaned out to get rid of any infection. This helps to prevent pain and save the tooth.
Signs That You May Need A Root Canal
1. Tooth Pain
If your tooth has an infection in the center part (tooth pulp), you may feel pain when you bite or put pressure on it. You may also feel a lot of pain when you eat or drink something hot or cold.
If you are experiencing pain in your tooth, make an appointment with your Sydney dentist as soon as possible for a diagnosis.
2. Bump on the Gums
A dental cyst is a small bump that can form on your gums near a tooth that needs a root canal. It happens when a tooth is decayed or infected, and can also occur if the inside of the tooth is infected.
3. Darkening of the Tooth
If the inner pulp of a tooth is infected, the tooth may turn darker or black. If you notice one tooth is darker than the others, it could be a sign of a problem with the pulp inside the tooth.
Are Root Canals Painful
Don't worry about getting a root canal, it's not as scary as it sounds! Thanks to modern technology, it's not much different from getting a deep filling.
Your dentist will use a numbing agent so you won't feel much pain during the procedure. Afterward, your mouth might feel a bit sore, but your dentist might suggest taking over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or Advil.
While you might feel some pain before the treatment, it should decrease within a day and become minimal within a week.
Tips On Preventing A Root Canal
To prevent the need for a root canal, it's important to follow the same dental hygiene habits that help prevent cavities and other tooth problems. To keep your teeth healthy, try to get into the habit of following these steps:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day.
- Use fluoride toothpaste or a fluoride rinse.
- See your dentist for checkups every 6 months.
- Have your teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist at least once a year.
- Limit the amount of sugary food and refined carbohydrates you eat. These foods tend to stick to your teeth. If you eat sugary foods, try to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth shortly afterward.