WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF ROOT CANAL?

Identifying the signs of a root canal is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth. Not every tooth requires a root canal, but treating a tooth with the right timing can significantly impact its long-term survival. Teeth that receive timely root canal treatments have higher survival rates compared to those left untreated.

Many patients fear the idea of getting a root canal due to misconceptions, such as the belief that it may lead to oral cancer. This misconception often leads to unnecessary delays in treatment. Others may be concerned about the cost of root canal treatment. However, you might be surprised to know that avoiding a root canal can end up being more expensive in the long run.

Teeth contain a central vital area called the pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. When tooth decay reaches this sensitive area, root canal treatment becomes necessary to save the tooth.

Does a Toothache Always Mean You Need a Root Canal?

The short answer is no. Not all toothaches require a root canal. Your dentist will carefully evaluate your tooth and recommend the best treatment plan based on your condition. If you’re experiencing pain, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional to determine the proper course of action.

Signs That You May Need a Root Canal

Teeth do show specific signs that can help you determine whether root canal treatment is necessary. When tooth decay extends into the deeper layers, near the pulp, root canal treatment is often the best option. Here are some characteristic signs of root canal pain:

1. Pain During the Night

One of the most common signs that a tooth may need a root canal is severe pain at night, often preventing sleep. This is typically caused by the involvement of the tooth’s vital portion—its pulp.

2. Pain While Eating

If you experience intense pain when food gets stuck in the decayed area, it could be a sign that the tooth is infected. The pain usually subsides once the food is removed.

3. Pain on Pricking

If a toothpick or similar instrument causes extreme pain when trying to dislodge food from a cavity, it could indicate that the tooth requires root canal treatment.

These symptoms can often lead to the need for a root canal, but it’s always important to schedule a thorough dental checkup for an accurate diagnosis.

Are There Any Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment?

If the decay is near the pulp but hasn’t yet reached it, your dentist may recommend a procedure called indirect pulp capping. In this treatment, a thin layer of dentin is left over the pulp after removing most of the decay.

Calcium hydroxide paste is placed on top of the dentin to promote healing and the formation of secondary dentin, which helps prevent further decay. However, this procedure has only about a 50% success rate, so it’s essential for your dentist to determine whether it’s a viable option or if root canal treatment is necessary.

What Causes You to Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is one of the best conservative treatments available for a severely damaged tooth. It helps maintain the structure of your tooth and supports chewing functions. There is no better alternative to a natural tooth, so it’s always wiser to preserve your natural teeth to the maximum extent possible.

How Long Do Root Canals Last?

Studies indicate a 95% success rate for root canal procedures. However, no structure in the body is permanent, and the key to ensuring the longevity of your treated tooth lies in proper maintenance. Neglecting your treated tooth can lead to further degradation, so it’s crucial to maintain it to prolong its lifespan.

Which One is Better? Root Canal or Extraction?

My answer is always a root canal. This is the best method to preserve your natural tooth. Nothing compares to the function and feel of natural teeth. Even high-cost implants cannot replace a natural tooth’s comfort and function. Additionally, replacing a missing tooth takes considerable time and money.

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Root Canal?

Postponing root canal procedures can lead to severe complications. It can result in abscesses below the tooth, leading to dangerous infections in surrounding spaces. In some cases, the infection can spread to adjacent teeth and gums, resulting in tooth loss.

It’s crucial to follow your dentist’s advice rather than delay treatment. Dentists understand the situation better and can help prevent more serious problems down the line.

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Dr. Kiran

Oral physician & Consultant Oral radiologist

"Denta digest" – a blog on Oral diseases & Dental problems" is the brainchild of Dr. Sai Kiran MDS. As an Oral medicine expert and a consultant oral radiologist, he is good at diagnosis & treatment planning. Dr.Kiran has many national & international publications to his credit. Read more about him on the "about me" page.

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