Disclaimer: We are not dentists; this is not professional medical advice.
That being said, many people wonder if they need a root canal when they experience dental pain. The only way to know for sure is to visit a dentist, but there are some signs that may indicate that a root canal is necessary.
If you have tooth pain that:
- gets worse when you eat or drink something hot or cold
- lingers even after you've taken over-the-counter pain medication
- is accompanied by gum swelling or tenderness
Do you have intense tooth pain? Does your tooth feel sensitive to hot and cold temperatures? Are you experiencing bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might need a root canal.
During a root canal procedure, the pulp inside your tooth is removed. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains blood vessels and nerves. Once the pulp is removed, the empty space is cleaned and sealed.
Root canals are usually performed by dentists or endodontists (a dentist who specializes in treating conditions of the teeth's pulp). If you think you may need a root canal, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so they can evaluate your symptoms and determine the best course of treatment.
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