SIGNS YOU MAY NEED A ROOT CANAL
Root canal treatment is often necessary to address a tooth that has become severely infected or physically damaged. During a root canal, your endodontist will remove the soft tissue from the tooth, sealing it off and placing a dental crown over the tooth for protection. Knowing the signs of a tooth that needs a root canal can help you take prompt action by scheduling an appointment for root canal therapy with your Naples endodontist.
A Severe Toothache
Severe or prolonged tooth pain is a sign of a problem affecting the tooth, which may be caused by an infection of the living tissue normally protected by the hard enamel. When the enamel becomes eroded or damaged due to tooth decay, the infection can spread into the nervous tissue and cause pain. If you experience tooth pain that lasts more than a day, it’s time to contact your dentist to determine the cause and whether treatment with a root canal is necessary.
Persistent Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath can also be a sign of a dental problem, especially when treatments such as proper brushing and the use of mouthwash products fail to eliminate it. In some cases, bad breath is associated with a severely infected or abscessed tooth. If you are struggling to manage bad breath, your dentist can help you identify the cause of your bad breath to determine whether it might be due to an infection that requires root canal therapy.
A Damaged Tooth
A mouth injury that results in a chipped or cracked tooth can leave that tooth more susceptible to bacteria that live in the mouth. Damaged tooth enamel is not as effective at protecting the tooth’s interior from infection, which can lead to pain and sensitivity that indicate the need for treatment. Your endodontist will perform a root canal to eliminate the infection before using a crown to cap off the tooth and prevent future problems.
