Is tooth pain something you can safely ignore? Tooth pain often points to a deeper problem that needs attention. Many people delay treatment because they are unsure what their symptoms mean. In many cases, root canal therapy is recommended when the inner part of the tooth becomes infected or damaged. Recognizing early warning signs can help save your natural tooth and prevent severe pain.
Root canal treatment is not about pain; it is about relief. When infection reaches the tooth’s nerve, it cannot heal on its own. Getting timely care from a dentist can stop the infection from spreading and protect your overall oral health.
What Is Root Canal Therapy and Why Is It Needed?
Root canal therapy is a dental treatment that removes infection from inside a tooth. Inside every tooth is soft tissue called pulp. When this pulp becomes infected due to decay, cracks, or injury, it can cause pain and swelling.
Without treatment, the infection can spread to the jawbone or nearby teeth. Root canal therapy near you helps clean the tooth, remove the infection, and seal it so it can function normally again.
Persistent Tooth Pain That Does Not Go Away
One of the most common warning signs is ongoing tooth pain. This pain may:
- Feel sharp or throbbing.
- It gets worse when chewing.
- Appear suddenly or stay constant.
Pain that lasts for days usually means the nerve is affected. A dentist near you can examine the tooth and determine whether a root canal is needed before the damage gets worse.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold That Lingers
Some sensitivity is normal, but lingering pain is not. If your tooth hurts for several seconds or minutes after drinking something hot or cold, it could mean the nerve is infected.
This type of sensitivity often points to nerve damage. A dentist in Vancouver can take X-rays to check if the pulp inside the tooth is inflamed or infected.
Swollen or Tender Gums Near a Tooth
Swelling around one tooth should never be ignored. You may notice:
- Puffy or red gums
- Pain when touching the area
- A small bump that looks like a pimple
This swelling often means an infection is trying to drain. Root canal therapy near you can remove the source of infection and help the gums heal properly.
Darkening or Discolouration of a Tooth
A tooth that turns grey or dark yellow may have damaged nerves. This change happens when blood flow inside the tooth is affected due to infection or injury.
Discolouration is a strong sign that the tooth pulp is no longer healthy. Seeing a dentist early can help save the tooth before extraction becomes necessary.
Pain When Chewing or Applying Pressure
If biting down causes pain, it may mean the infection has reached the root of the tooth. This pain can feel deep and uncomfortable.
Chewing pain often gets worse over time. Early root canal therapy can stop further damage and restore comfort while eating.
A Cracked or Chipped Tooth With Pain
Cracks allow bacteria to reach the inner layers of the tooth. Even small cracks can lead to serious infection if left untreated.
If you have a cracked tooth along with sensitivity or pain, a dentist near you may recommend root canal therapy to clean and protect the tooth from further damage.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Ignoring symptoms can lead to serious problems, including:
- Tooth loss
- Jawbone infection
- Spread of bacteria to other teeth
- More complex and costly treatment
Getting help early keeps treatment simpler and helps preserve your natural tooth.
Take the Next Step Toward Lasting Pain Relief!
If you are noticing any of these warning signs, acting early can help protect your tooth and ease discomfort before it worsens. Schedule a visit with Lighthouse Dental & Implant Therapy today for a thorough evaluation, gentle treatment, and personalized care designed to restore comfort and protect your smile for the long term.
FAQs
Does root canal treatment hurt?
No. Modern root canal treatment is done with proper numbing, making the procedure comfortable. In most cases, it actually relieves the pain caused by infection rather than creating new discomfort.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canal treatments are completed in one or two dental visits. The exact time depends on how severe the infection is and which tooth is being treated.
Can I wait if the pain comes and goes?
No. Even if the pain disappears for a while, the infection lives inside. Not fixing it now will allow the problem to get worse. It will also end up causing further damage.
Is swelling always associated with an infection?
Not necessary. Tooth infections can cause pain, sensitivity, or pressure, but no swelling may be visible. This is why it’s important to have dental exams done even if swelling isn’t apparent.
