When might a root canal treatment be necessary?

A root canal (also known as endodontic treatment) is a dental procedure that involves the removal of the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the substance in the middle of a tooth that consists of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It’s the pulp that allows the tooth to grow. A root canal is needed if the pulp becomes infected or inflamed.

What Causes Damage To A Tooth’s Pulp?

The following are some of the ways in which your pulp can become damaged to the point where you may need a root canal:

  • A deep cavity that was left untreated for too long has resulted in the decay of the pulp
  • The tooth was chipped or cracked severely enough to damage the pulp
  • You experienced an impact injury to the tooth that damaged the pulp but not the tooth
  • Damage as a result of multiple dental procedures performed on the tooth

Signs You Need Root Canal Treatment In Waterloo

There are numerous signs that can indicate that there’s damage to the pulp of a tooth. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some of these signs could be symptoms of another tooth-related problem. As such, it’s important to have your teeth looked at by a professional to determine whether a root canal is needed or not. Keeping this in mind, the following are some of the common signs that indicate you may need a root canal:

  • You experience significant pain in one tooth while you are biting or chewing
  • Pimples have formed on the gums around a specific tooth
  • One of your teeth has been physically damaged (cracked or chipped)
  • Your gums are tender or swollen around a specific tooth
  • The gums around the tooth have darkened or even begun to decay
  • The area around the tooth has become sensitive to hot or cold, a sensitivity that lingers even after exposure

Visit Your Trusted Dentist in Waterloo Today

If you’re experiencing any of the signs that the pulp in your tooth is damaged, you’ll want to see a dentist right away. An infected or inflamed pulp can cause serious discomfort and pain if left untreated. Fortunately, root canals are not as complicated as they once were. If you think that you might need root canal treatment in Waterloo, be sure to contact us at Waterloo Smiles Dentistry today.

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