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Do I Need a Root Canal? Signs, Symptoms, and When to Call Your Dentist
When it comes to saving a severely damaged or infected tooth, a root canal can make all the difference. While the phrase might strike fear in some patients, the truth is root canals are safe, effective, and often no more uncomfortable than getting a regular filling.
At Milpitas Dental Group, we want to help you understand the warning signs of serious dental issues—and when a root canal might be the best option to preserve your natural tooth.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth) to prevent further infection, pain, or tooth loss. Once the pulp is removed, the space is cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a special material, then sealed and restored—often with a dental crown.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
You may not always know that your tooth is in trouble, but there are some common signs to look out for:
🔥 1. Persistent Tooth Pain
Ongoing pain—especially deep in the tooth or jaw—can be a major red flag. The pain may come and go, or feel worse when chewing or applying pressure.
🧊 2. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
If your tooth hurts when you drink coffee or eat ice cream, and the pain lingers long after, it could mean the pulp inside your tooth is damaged.
😷 3. Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling, tenderness, or even a small pimple-like bump (dental abscess) on the gums can signal infection near the root.
🌫️ 4. Discolored Tooth
A tooth that has become gray or dark may be a sign that the pulp inside is dying due to trauma or infection.
🦷 5. Cracked or Chipped Tooth
An injury—even a small chip—can expose the pulp to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and the need for a root canal.
Common Scenario Example
Case: Sarah from Fremont
Sarah came into our Milpitas office complaining of lingering pain after drinking iced tea. She also noticed her back molar had darkened slightly. After an exam and X-ray, we found infection in the pulp of the tooth. A root canal relieved her pain and saved the tooth—no extraction needed!
FAQs About Root Canals
❓ Is a root canal painful?
Most patients report that a root canal feels similar to getting a filling. With modern anesthesia, you’ll feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
❓ How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals can be completed in one or two visits, depending on the tooth and the extent of infection.
❓ What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
Delaying treatment can lead to severe infection, tooth loss, or spread of bacteria to surrounding areas, including your jaw or bloodstream.
❓ Will I need a crown after a root canal?
In most cases, yes—especially for back teeth. A crown helps restore the tooth’s strength and function after treatment.
Serving Milpitas, San Jose, Fremont & Beyond
If you’re in Milpitas, San Jose, Fremont, Union City, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, or Alviso and think you might need a root canal, don’t wait. Early treatment can save your tooth—and your smile.
🦷 Schedule your appointment today with Milpitas Dental Group. We’re here to make root canals as stress-free and comfortable as possible!