When it comes to problems with your teeth, it can be hard to self-diagnose. You may be experiencing pain or sensitivity, but what does that mean? When it comes to a root canal, there are many symptoms that you might encounter. If you have one of those symptoms, there is no way for you to know that you definitely need a root canal. You will know one thing though; you definitely need a trip to your Wollongong dentist.
What is Root Canal Treatment in Dentistry?
Root canal treatment in dentistry is used to repair a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. This happens when the decay reaches the tooth’s pulp inside the root, where nerves and blood vessels are found. While antibiotics can temporarily clear the infection, they can’t get rid of it altogether. Root canal therapy is the only way to preserve the look, feel and function of the natural tooth.
Root canal therapy is effective and gentle. Like a standard filling, the procedure involves removing the decay, cleaning the area and then filling and sealing the tooth. Root canal is a commonly used treatment for problems that would have previously led to tooth loss.
What Symptoms Should You Look Out For?
There are many reasons why you might need a root canal. However, whether it is due to decay, a broken tooth or multiple dental procedures, the chances are you will experience some telltale symptoms:
1. Persistent Pain
Whether you have constant pain or it comes and goes, any toothache will soon start to take its toll. When it comes to infection in the root of your tooth, you may feel the pain deep in your tooth or as referred pain in your face, jaw or surrounding teeth.
2. Increased Sensitivity
You may feel sensitivity to heat or cold, and that sensitivity may be a dull ache or a sharp pain. However, if the pain lingers after you’ve finished eating or drinking, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the root of your tooth.
3. Swollen Gums
If your gums are swollen around a tooth, it can be another sign that you may need a root canal. The swelling may or may not be painful and can come and go, but it is common in relation to issues with pulp tissue.
4. Painful to Touch
As well as experiencing sensitivity when you eat or drink, you may find that your tooth hurts too. If your tooth hurts to touch, it could be a sign of severe decay or nerve damage, which often needs to be treated with a root canal.
5. Pimple on Your Gum
A little pimple on your gum, known as a gum boil or abscess, is usually a sign of a bigger problem. The pimple can ooze and leave a bad taste in your mouth, so you’re definitely going to want to seek help from a dentist.
How Much Does Root Canal Cost?
If you’re experiencing symptoms and think you need a root canal, you may well be worried about the cost. If you find yourself searching for affordable root canal treatment near me, it’s worth knowing what to expect. Firstly, the cost of root canal treatment will vary depending on how damaged the affected tooth is. Secondly, the cost will vary depending on the experience and skills of your dentist.
When it comes to having any dental treatment in Fairy Meadow, you are making an investment in your future. By choosing an experienced dentist, the procedure will be much more comfortable and be more successful. That means you will have your natural tooth firmly in place for years to come. And, while there will be a cost involved, it will be far less than the cost of tooth extraction and replacement with an artificial tooth.
What to Do If You Experience Symptoms
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms we’ve mentioned, it is best to visit your Wollongong dentist as soon as you can to stop any infection from spreading further. That way, you may have a chance to save your natural tooth before it’s too late. And, while you may not relish the thought of a root canal, it doesn’t have to be painful. Chances are the pain and discomfort of putting up with symptoms will be a lot worse.
