What are signs that I need root canal treatment?

Many patients aren't sure when tooth pain warrants a call to the dentist or when it might indicate the need for root canal treatment. While only a dental professional can determine if you need a root canal, these warning signs suggest it's time to schedule an evaluation at Pineview Dental:

1. Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain — Throbbing pain, especially when you chew on the tooth or apply pressure, often indicates inflammation or infection in the tooth's pulp.
2. Prolonged Temperature Sensitivity — Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold or when pressure is applied may indicate damaged pulp nerves.
3. Tooth Darkening or Discoloration — When an infection breaks down the tooth’s mineral structure, it can appear dark or grayish-black.
4. Gum Swelling and Tenderness — Infected tooth pulp can cause the surrounding gum tissue to become swollen, tender, or raised.
5. Persistent Pimple on the Gums — A small, pimple-like bump on your gums (called a fistula) may appear and cause an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
6. Facial or Jaw Swelling — In advanced cases, infection can spread, causing facial, jaw, or neck swelling. This is a serious symptom that requires immediate attention.

Call for Root Canal Treatment in Columbia, MD

Remember, acting on these symptoms early often means a more straightforward treatment with better outcomes. Dr. Fogel provides same-day emergency appointments for patients in pain throughout Howard County, including Columbia, Ellicott City, and surrounding communities.