The Tooth of the Matter: A Dental Blog
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The Tooth of the Matter: A Dental Blog

You only have one set of adult teeth, and they need to last until you are 80, 90, or beyond. The actions you take towards your teeth today will either benefit you or harm you in the future. Of course, good dental care starts with seeing a dentist regularly. You should go in for cleanings and checkups, and any other time you think something might be amiss with your teeth. Education is important when it comes to any aspect of your health, so start reading the articles on this website to educate yourself about dentists and dental care. We promise that when you're 80 and you still have your teeth, you won't regret the time spent.

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The Tooth of the Matter: A Dental Blog

Dealing With Dental Problems? How To Tell If You Need A Root Canal

Sofia Curtis

If it's been a while since you visited your dentist, you could be at risk for tooth damage. Unfortunately, tooth damage often results in the need for root canal treatment. One of the best ways to avoid the need for root canal treatment is to stick to your twice-yearly dental exams. If you're experiencing problems with your teeth right now, take a look at the list provided below. This list contains four signs that you may need a root canal. If you're experiencing any of the problems listed below, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. 

Prolonged Toothache Pain

Pain is often one of the first signs that you're experiencing a dental emergency. Unfortunately, many people treat toothache pain with over-the-counter medication in hopes that the problem will go away. In some cases, the toothache pain will go away — for a few days. However, as the problem worsens, so will the pain. If you've endured prolonged toothache pain and the pain is getting more severe by the day, you need to visit your dentist right away. That pain could be caused by extensive decay and dental infections, which may require a root canal. 

Unusual Tooth Discoloration 

It's not uncommon to develop discoloration on your teeth, especially discoloration associated with food, beverages, or aging. However, that type of discoloration can usually be treated with whitening products. If you're noticing a darker discoloration on your teeth that seems to be coming from the inside, you need to schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. The discoloration could be caused by root damage, which means you may be in need of a root canal. 

Swelling of Gums or Jawline

If you've been dealing with dental problems and the symptoms are now moving past the tooth, you need to see your dentist right away. This is particularly true if you're noticing swelling in your gums or jawline. Dental infections often present themselves with swelling, especially around the gums or jawline. Swelling is often a sign that the infection has progressed. If that's the case, you may require a root canal to reduce the swelling and eliminate the infection. 

Increased Tooth Sensitivity

If you've suddenly developed increased tooth sensitivity, it's time to get to the root of the problem. Increased tooth sensitivity is often the sign of an underlying dental infection. If your tooth sensitivity isn't alleviated by changing toothpastes, it's time to see your dentist right away.


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