There are many situations that can cause damage to the pulp or nerve of a tooth. Often, a patient will experience pain, and this pain is usually his or her first sign of an issue. In many occasions, there are few or no symptoms at all, and a problem will go undiagnosed for weeks or even months. To understand when you might need root canals, you need to know how to spot the symptoms and when to see your dentist.
Pain
One of the most common and recognizable symptoms is pain. Root canals in Egg Harbor Township, NJ are essential and necessary when the pulp or nerve of a tooth is damaged. Without them, you can experience extreme levels of pain, infection, or worse.
The pain associated with this treatment is highly specific. If the tooth is still alive, you will experience extreme sensitivity to hot or cold liquids and foods, and that pain will continue for a while after the offending liquid or food is removed. Heat sensitivity is highly indicative of teeth that need root canals.
Abscess
An abscess will always require a root canal. An abscess is an infection formed when the pulp of the tooth dies and a pus pocket forms around the end of the root. Over time, that pus will accumulate in an area of infected dead nerve tissue. In some cases, this abscess will form a bump similar to a pimple on the outside of the gums. You may even notice pus draining from the pimple or begin to experience a bad taste in your mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, you need to see your dentist as soon as physically possible.
An untreated infection can lead to serious health risks, such as an infection in the bone around the root of the tooth. If left untreated indefinitely, you risk your life. For these reasons and more, you cannot hesitate to visit an Egg Harbor Township dentist.
