Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Prevention and precaution are best when it comes to dental diseases—the sooner you intercept a problem, the easier and more effective treatment will be. Learn the signs of tooth decay that may require root canal therapy. Set aside any dental anxieties and see a dentist at Ash & Roberts, DDS in Centralia, WA, for a dental exam.

What Is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the deterioration of the nerves and pulp inside of a tooth. It starts with a cavity, which corrodes the protective outer enamel, but when it inflames and infects the inner soft tissue it becomes a much more urgent issue. As the infection progresses it can invade the lower canals of the tooth and erode bone tissue, eventually causing tooth loss. Patients who have the signs of tooth decay require a treatment called a root canal.

Concerning Signs
Keep an eye out for the following signs that it’s time to go to a Centralia dentist for an exam to see if you need root canal therapy:

- Any level of dental pain, even if it seems minor. The sensation may range from a sharp pain when you bite, to throbbing and aching that causes headaches. In the early stages of decay, you might only need a cavity treated and filled.
- Stinging sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages.
- Broken enamel or dark spots on the teeth (namely the back molars).
- Odorous breath that doesn’t subside after brushing or rinsing.

Don’t Put Off Your Root Canal Treatment
If the signs of serious tooth decay show up, that’s an indication that you may not have seen a dentist in time to cure a minor dental cavity. Don’t make the same mistake again—see a dentist as soon as possible if you suspect there may be a tooth infection. It is more difficult to clean and disinfect a decayed tooth when the bad tissue has corroded deep into the canals. You’ll be presented with a number of sedation options to help you relax before and during the procedure.

Restore Good Dental Health
Even just one decayed tooth can threaten your overall dental health. Have it treated as soon as possible by a dentist at Ash & Roberts, DDS in Centralia, WA. Call (360) 736-8380 today for an appointment with Dr. Steven Ash or Dr. Brian Roberts.