When Do You Need a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatments are highly recommended for patients who are experiencing pain in a particular tooth that has been found to have bacteria that is causing an infection within the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that is inside of the tooth, which can become infected if bacteria have entered the tooth due to a significant chip, crack, or fracture, or if the tooth develops a cavity that is left untreated. The bacteria within the tooth cause infection and inflammation, requiring a root canal to remove all of the infected tissue to allow the patient to keep their natural tooth.

Other reasons a patient may require a root canal other than trauma or an untreated cavity include having to have repeated dental procedures completed on the same tooth or having a faulty crown placed over the tooth that is unable to fully protect the tooth from bacteria. Dentists and endodontists will favor performing root canals for their patients rather than an extraction or a less invasive option just to make sure that all of the infected tissue can be fully removed and so that the natural tooth can be restored to full function.

Root canals are the more favored option by the vast majority of dentists and endodontists for many good reasons, the first being that it is necessary for many patients in order to fully remove bacteria that is causing the infection to prevent it from spreading elsewhere in the mouth and body, treating the source of the pain for the patient to completely stop the pain in its tracks. Having the natural tooth fully restored through a root canal will allow for a very quick recovery time that does not require any follow-up maintenance, whereas having the tooth extracted will require maintenance in order to prevent the other teeth from shifting and to ensure that the patient is able to continue eating and chewing normally. Root canals will be the most cost-effective option and will allow for improved overall health, preventing any further bone loss, unlike other treatment options available.

Lastly, a root canal will not only eradicate the pain that is being caused by the infection but will also be a very quick and efficient procedure that requires very little downtime. Most patients who receive a root canal will be able to return to work, school, or any other normal daily activities the day following the procedure, only needing to be mindful of their diet and taking the prescribed medications for the days following.

A local anesthetic will be administered or applied to the gums and nerves surrounding the affected tooth, ensuring that no actual pain is experienced during the procedure, and will slowly wear off for several hours following the procedure. Once the local anesthetic has started to wear off, the patient will likely experience some discomfort, sensitivity, and pain. The provider of the root canal will be prescribed pain medication, anti-inflammatory medication, and likely antibiotics that should be taken as directed following the procedure to help manage any associated pain or discomfort. It is also recommended that patients apply a cold compress to their face around the tooth that received the root canal to help reduce swelling and inflammation, which will further help to manage pain levels.

Minor pain and discomfort are to be expected but should continue to reduce in the following days, with all symptoms likely being gone within a week. If the pain persists for longer than 7 to 10 days, patients should reach out to their root canal provider or seek medical attention to ensure that the open wound has not developed an infection and to make sure the treatment site is healing properly.

Indications that you may require a root canal treatment can vary, but there are some common signs to watch out for. Persistent pain is a significant indicator, particularly if the pain is severe or arises without an obvious cause. This pain may intensify when you’re eating or applying pressure to the tooth. Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the source of the temperature change is removed, could also suggest a need for a root canal. Other signs include swollen or tender gums around a specific tooth, dark discoloration of the tooth, and a pimple-like abscess on the gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, we recommend scheduling a consultation at Ace Endodontics, where our experts can provide a thorough examination and diagnosis.

Determining the right time for a root canal depends on the extent and nature of the tooth damage. It’s not uncommon for a toothache to become unbearable before many individuals consider seeking endodontic treatment. However, waiting for the pain to become extreme can complicate matters. If the pulp infection has progressed significantly, it may lead to an abscess or even a systemic infection, which could be potentially life-threatening. We advise patients not to wait until the pain becomes severe. Instead, at the first sign of persistent discomfort or sensitivity, reach out to our team. We’re committed to assessing your condition and recommending the best course of action to ensure your oral health.

Determining whether you require a root canal treatment or a simple filling depends on the severity of the tooth decay or damage. Typically, a filling is used to repair a tooth that has a small amount of decay or a minor cavity. However, for more extensive damage, particularly if the pulp of the tooth is affected, a root canal becomes necessary. Symptoms such as severe pain, extended sensitivity to temperature changes, swollen gums, or discoloration of the tooth often indicate damage deep within the tooth, suggesting the need for a root canal. However, it’s important to note that sometimes, a tooth may need a root canal even without apparent symptoms. It is therefore crucial to maintain regular dental check-ups, where our team of experts can monitor your oral health and advise you promptly on the most appropriate treatment.

The timeline for undergoing a root canal can vary greatly from one patient to another, depending primarily on the extent and severity of the tooth decay or damage. In some cases, if the infection is caught early, you might not need immediate treatment. However, delaying a root canal procedure when it’s needed can lead to significant complications, such as the spread of infection, the loss of the tooth, and even systemic health issues. It’s important to remember that a root canal is not just an optional procedure; it’s often a necessary step to save a tooth and protect your overall health.

At Ace Endodontics, we always recommend seeking professional advice at the earliest signs of discomfort or unusual oral symptoms to ensure timely and effective treatment. Contact us now or conveniently schedule an appointment online today! We are conveniently located at 11980 San Vicente Blvd Ste 900 Los Angeles, CA 90049. We serve patients from Brentwood CA, Santa Monica CA, West Los Angeles CA, Beverly Hills CA, West Hollywood CA, Venice CA, Culver City CA, and surrounding areas.