Do You Need a Root Canal in San Jose?
When it comes to dental health, ignoring persistent symptoms can lead to bigger problems down the road. One of the most common procedures to address severe tooth issues is a root canal, a treatment that can save a damaged or infected tooth and relieve pain. But how do you know if you need one?
Our dentist near you goes over the signs that might be pointing to the need for root canal treatment. Contact our dental office in San Jose by calling (408) 377-5134. We’re welcoming new patients.
What Is Root Canal Treatment and Why Is It Needed?
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged tissue (pulp) from inside a tooth, cleans the area, and seals it to prevent further issues. The tooth pulp contains nerves and blood vessels. When it becomes infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and lead to complications like abscesses if left untreated.
Persistent or Severe Tooth Pain
One of the most common signs indicating that you might need a root canal is persistent tooth pain that doesn’t go away. This pain may feel like a deep ache or sharp throbbing, often worsening when you chew, bite, or apply pressure to the tooth. The discomfort can be constant or come and go, but it’s usually intense enough to disrupt your daily life.
Persistent pain often signals that the tooth’s pulp is inflamed or infected. This can result from deep cavities, a cracked tooth, or trauma that exposes the pulp to bacteria. The nerves inside the tooth become irritated, causing pain that may radiate to your jaw, ear, or head.
Prolonged Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Have you started wincing when sipping hot coffee or eating ice cream? Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold is another red flag that you might need a root canal treatment. While mild sensitivity is common, sensitivity that lingers for minutes after exposure to temperature changes or certain foods (like sweets) is cause for concern.
When the pulp inside your tooth is damaged or infected, it becomes hypersensitive to stimuli. Hot or cold temperatures can irritate the nerves, causing discomfort that doesn’t subside quickly. In some cases, the sensitivity may worsen over time, especially if the infection spreads.
Swollen or Tender Gums Near the Tooth
If you notice swelling or tenderness in the gums around a specific tooth, it could indicate an infection that requires root canal therapy. The swelling may appear as a small bump (sometimes called a “gum boil” or abscess) or general puffiness. The area might feel sore to the touch or when you chew.
An infection in the tooth’s pulp can spread to the surrounding gum tissue, causing inflammation or an abscess (a pocket of pus). This is a serious sign, as untreated abscesses can lead to bone loss or systemic infections. In some cases, you may also notice a bad taste in your mouth if the abscess drains.
Contact our dentist inSan Jose at (408) 377-5134 to schedule an appointment if you’re dealing with dental issues
Darkening or Discoloration of the Tooth
A tooth that suddenly darkens or turns gray is a warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored. Discoloration often indicates that the tooth’s pulp is damaged or dead, which may require a root canal to save the tooth.
When the pulp inside a tooth dies—due to trauma, decay, or infection—the tooth can lose its vitality, leading to a grayish or darkened appearance. This is different from surface stains caused by coffee or smoking, as it originates from within the tooth.
A Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection and the need for a root canal. Cracks can occur from biting down on hard objects (like ice or nuts), trauma, or grinding your teeth (bruxism). You might notice pain when chewing or sensitivity to temperature changes.
A crack allows bacteria to enter the tooth’s pulp, causing inflammation or infection. Even small cracks can worsen over time, compromising the tooth’s structure and increasing the risk of further damage.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
If our San Jose dentist recommends a root canal, here’s what you can expect:
- Diagnosis and Preparation: Dr. Amir HagShenas will confirm the need for a root canal using X-rays and clinical tests. They’ll numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
- Procedure: Our dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans the root canal system, and fills it with a biocompatible material. A temporary or permanent filling seals the tooth.
- Restoration: In most cases, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to restore its strength and appearance.
- Recovery: Mild discomfort may occur for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to normal activities within a day.
Don’t live your life in pain. If you’re experiencing the signs of an infected tooth, contact our dentist in San Jose at (408) 377-5134.
Welcoming New Patients at Our San Jose Dental Office
Ignoring the signs of a potential root canal can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss or systemic infections. If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, swollen gums, discoloration, or a cracked tooth, it’s time to act.
Contact our dentist near you today at (408) 377-5134 to schedule an appointment. Our team is ready to evaluate your symptoms, answer your questions, and provide personalized care to restore your oral health.