How to Determine Whether You Need a Root Canal

A dentist will need to consider several different factors to actually conclude whether a root canal is right for you. Even though there are several signs that can help you make an informed decision, there are numerous others that are less evident and can only be noticed your dentist. If you are trying to determine whether you need a root canal, here is what you will need to keep in mind.

Root Canal Symptoms to Look Out for

To determine whether you need a root canal or not, there are some common symptoms you will need to look out for. However, you will still need a second opinion from your dentist to make sure the problem is what you had though it to be. The two common symptoms include:

1. Gum Swelling

Swelling does not occur in each and every case, in some cases it does, it can range from slight to pronounced lumps that can be felt in the mouth. The swelling is mostly located at the tip of the tooth’s root and making the tooth feel elevated than the rest. This can further lead to flare-ups, which can extend to your neck and/or face.

2. Pain

Teeth that require root canal do not always cause pain. But if it does, the pain can range from slight to extremes. Additionally, depending on your posture, its character can change as well, meaning it could intensify or lessen at any time. The pain could come in response particularly due to stimuli like biting pressure and chewing.

That being said, you will still need to evaluate different events and types of issues to actually be able to determine whether you need a root canal in the first place, they are:

• Signs You Have Noticed

It can be something as simple as the presence of swelling or discomfort. These are normal indicators that allow an individual to conclude whether their tooth has a problem. This information can then be passed on to a dentist, who quizzes patients about the experience to make a thorough assessment.

• Signs Observed By Your Dentist

You have to keep in mind there are some teeth that give little to no indication that there is any problem whatsoever. However, there are subtle hints that are better understood by a trained professional.

• Additional Tests

A thorough analysis is incomplete without essential tests. These tests can help identify the suspect tooth, but further tests are made in order just to be on the safe side.

Keeping the aforementioned factors in mind, you will find it easier to determine whether you need a root canal. There is no doubt that the death of a tooth’s nerve can be extremely painful and sometimes you may not even know you have a problem. This makes it even more important for you to visit your dentist frequently to have such issues treated before they can get worse later on.