When most people hear the term “root canal,” they immediately think of pain. Sometimes it’s because they think the root canal itself is painful (it’s not!), and other times it’s due to the pain of infection. The truth is, you don’t have to be in agony to need a root canal. In fact, waiting until you’re in pain could make things much worse! Continue reading to learn what you should know about root canals, the associated pain, and why getting ahead of your treatment matters.
Why Would You Need a Root Canal if You’re Not in Pain?
Sometimes, a tooth can be severely damaged or infected without causing immediate pain. This is because the nerve inside the tooth can die slowly, dulling any sensation you might expect to feel. But just because you aren’t feeling discomfort doesn’t mean there’s no trouble!
Here are some more “silent” signs you might need a root canal:
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
- A small bump or pimple on the gums
- Tenderness or swelling around a tooth
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure
- A persistent bad taste or odor in your mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to call your dentist for an evaluation. A root canal might be the only way to save your tooth.
Waiting for Pain Is Risky
If you wait for a tooth to start hurting before seeing your dentist, the infection could spread deeper into the roots of your teeth, your gums, or even your jawbone. This can lead to more complicated, expensive treatments, greater discomfort, complications in healing, and even tooth loss.
Root canals are most successful when the problem is caught early, before the infection causes any major damage.
An Early Root Canal Is Easy to Solve
When your dentist catches a problem tooth early, your root canal can often be faster, simpler, and less uncomfortable. You’ll also be able to save more of your natural tooth structure, which is always the goal.
This is why it’s important to see your dental team every six months for preventive care, and failing that, see them right away when something seems off.
Pain is often a sign that something’s wrong, but it’s not the only one. If you notice any changes in your teeth, gums, or bite, don’t wait for pain to rear its ugly head. Call your dentist and get it checked out. A little caution today could save you from a lot of trouble tomorrow!
About the Practice
Dr. Rupeshwar Renkuntla earned his dental degree in Oklahoma after extensive training in India and has been helping patients protect and restore their smiles ever since. At Saginaw Dental, he focuses on making treatments like root canals as comfortable and stress-free as possible with modern techniques and a gentle approach. Call (817) 989-2832 to schedule a consultation or visit our website to see a full menu of services.