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1147 Clear Lake City Blvd, Houston, TX 77062

(281) 409-3777

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10 Critical Signs You Are In Need of a Root Canal

  • August 15, 2023
  • 85 Views

Nobody likes living with a bad case of toothache. Although, neglecting your oral hygiene is one way to trigger that, causing serious dental problems down the line. In fact, sometimes, a problem that might have seemed small could end up doing more damage, such as tooth decay.

What starts off as small black spots on your teeth have the power to infect your entire mouth. From the ridges of your pearly whites to their deep roots, once the bacteria reaches further in, only a dental professional may be able to help you out. This is why you should always pay attention to your teeth and gums. Look out for the signs indicating you need a root canal or a dental filling. However, if you don’t know how to identify these glaring warning signs, continue reading this blog to find out.

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    What is a Root Canal?

    A root canal is an endodontic treatment that removes the bacteria-infected pulp and nerve of the tooth from its roots, especially if it has been badly damaged. Usually, a root canal is performed as a last resort to save your tooth from dying out or getting extracted.

    The idea of the procedure may sound terrifying at first, but it is far from what it seems. Typically the dentist cleans and disinfects the root canals of the affected tooth, flushing it out before filling it with a biocompatible material. This helps to reduce the pain and prevents the area from getting infected again.

    Questions About 10 Critical Signs You Are In Need of a Root Canal ?

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    Signs You Need A Root Canal

    The easiest way to tell if something is wrong with your oral health is if you feel intense bouts of pain. However, to learn the specific details, take a look below.

    1. Extreme Tooth Pain
      Toothaches are the most common warning signs you should be looking out for. If your tooth starts hurting all of a sudden, there may be something seriously wrong with it. Consult a dentist immediately to avoid further damage.
    2. Tooth Discoloration
      The instant you notice the color of your tooth change or get discolored, it should be a sign enough that the bacteria has started to take root in the enamel, chipping it away.
    3. Heightened Tooth Sensitivity
      With tooth pain comes sensitivity. While some instances of tooth sensitivity are normal, cringing away in pain every time you eat something hot or cold is something to be wary of.
    4. Dental Abscess
      A swollen and tender bump near a tooth means the bacteria have dug in way too deep. Abscesses are filled with pus, and it’s your body’s way of fighting the infection. Immediate dental care is the only way to soothe the pain.
    5. Swollen Lymph Nodes
      If you notice the lymph nodes in your neck are swollen, along with your face and jaw, do not brush it away. This requires instant attention as it’s a sign the bacteria is spreading to your bloodstream.
    6. Dead Tooth
      A tooth that has lost its color and seemingly appears all black or yellow is an indication that the tooth is dead. This happens when the bacteria sever the connection between the tooth and its nerves.
    7. Difficulty Eating
      Tooth decay can make eating feel like an absolute nightmare. If you find yourself unable to chew through a meal, perhaps a visit to the dentist might be needed.
    8. Swollen Gums
      While swollen gums aren’t always a cause for concern, persistent swelling that doesn’t fade away is something to look out for.
    9. Cracked or Chipped Tooth
      Considering how bacteria eat dental enamel, it’s common for a tooth to chip away or suffer from cracks. This is a sign to get a dental evaluation done as soon as possible.
    10. Dark Gums
      It is not just your tooth that turns dark, but your gums can also suffer from the same fate. This happens when the infection spreads to the gums, having already eaten through the nerves and tissues of the tooth.
    They were are an impressive dental office that also provides emergency dental services. Stacey and Dr Nahhas are part of a A-1 team you can trust! Thank you so much. I appreciate you and recommend you highly!
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    Great people in the office! Left my teeth feeling great! The dentist was very attentive to my needs and questions and answered without dismissing me. Very refreshing to have a doctor listen to your questions and give straightforward and helpful answers. I found my new regular dentist at this location.

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    My experience was extremely pleasant. From the front office staff & assistants to dentist himself. Everyone was very professional & understanding. I Came in for an emergency during my lunch break, I was quoted & seen the same day. Very good dentist. I will definitely be coming back with the rest of my family

    Elida Aponte

    Let me just say that I’m not one who goes to the dentist often. But when I do this is the place that I go to. The staff are very welcoming for new and existing patients. When I went I was a little nervous at first but when I got there the staff talked with me asked how my day was, told me what they planned to do in terms I understood, that sort of thing. And when I was in the chair I was in and out in no time at all and didn’t feel any pain.

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    Closing Words

    In order to catch the signs depicting you need a root canal, you must stay vigilant in maintaining your oral hygiene. For more information about the root canal process, contact Lifeline Dental – LifeLine Dental of Houston at (281) 409-3777 or visit us at 1147 Clear Lake City Blvd, Houston, TX 77062, United States.

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