[Posted on August 7th, 2013 by Cashion Dental]
When sudden tooth pain strikes, it's a natural reaction to pick up the phone and call your College Station dentist. However, some serious dental problems can creep up on you because the symptoms set in slowly over time. A tooth in need of a root canal could show no symptoms at all. Seeing a dentist on a regular basis is the best way to prevent serious damage that requires this kind of care, but you should definitely call for an appointment immediately if you start struggling with these symptoms.Sharp PainThe American Association of Endontists warns that many patients experience pain in the root or center of a tooth when interior damage has occurred. Pain can also seem like it is originating in the gum around a tooth, which can be further complicated by an abscess or swelling due to the hidden infection. Visiting a College Station dentist is the only way to determine if you have an issue with gum disease or injuries and infections destroying the root of your tooth. The pain may occur when you chew or bite down, or it could manifest as tenderness when the entire area is compressed.SensitivitiesA little sense of pain or irritation when you bite into a cold ice cream cone isn't necessarily a sign of severe damage. These sensitivities can occur for no reason at all, but they also accompany the other symptoms that indicate you need a root canal. Watch out for reactions to hot and cold that last for quite a while after the beverage or snack is finished.DiscolorationTeeth that have suffered serious root damage may need removal by a skilled College Station dentist. One of the most common signs of damaged roots is discoloration. WedMD warns that you may need a root canal to fix a tooth that has turned dark or gray lately. Prompt inspection of a changing tooth is the best way to determine if it's a simple problem or a bigger issue.Gum ProblemsThe infections that strike at the roots of teeth can also trigger symptoms in the gum surrounding the affected tooth. You may notice abscesses that swell, look pimple-like, or leak pus into the mouth. The pain and irritation can even extend into the bone and tissue of the jaw if you don't have it addressed promptly. By dealing with a root issue as quickly as possible, you are ensuring that your College Station dentist can take care of the problem while the tooth is still intact. This prevents the need for an extraction, which could leave a gap in your smile. Since the roots of the teeth keep it strong and healthy, a tooth in need of a root canal should get immediate attention from the best dentist College Station has to offer.
