Need a root canal? Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal treatment. A root canal is a treatment of the pulp of the tooth that is infected, inflamed, or dead. Kenneth Woo, DDS and Associates in Kensington and Gaithersburg, MD, offers a full range of dental services. Dr. Kenneth Woo, Dr. Edmond Woo, and Dr. Ho Kai Wang are some of the top dentists in Kensington and Gaithersburg, MD. Here are five signs you may need a root canal.
1. You have a toothache.
Severe tooth pain is a sign you may need a root canal. The pain can range from mild to severe. A root canal is done to eliminate that pain. Root canals have the reputation of being painful. Root canals are not painful and can save teeth that might otherwise have to be extracted. Many patients have reported that the procedure is no more painful than getting a dental filling.
2. Cold and hot bother you.
If you pass on cold or hot foods and drinks because you know they’ll make your tooth hurt, it may be time to talk to your dentist. Tooth pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food and beverages is a sign you may need a root canal. Your tooth will no longer be sensitive to cold and hot temperatures after root canal treatment.
3. Your gums are swollen.
Swelling around one tooth is a sign that root canal treatment is needed. Gum inflammation is often associated with infection, although it does not always mean an infection is present.
4. You have a bump on your gum.
A swollen area or pimple-like bump on your gum is a sign that a root canal is needed. If you have a bump near the tooth, see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment. This bump is an accumulation of pus, which is associated with infection. Your dentist can treat this by performing a root canal.
5. You have a discolored tooth.
Dark discoloration of one tooth is a sign that root canal treatment is needed. When the roots of the tooth that needs a root canal have died, the tooth may turn dark yellow, brown, gray, or black. Tooth discoloration is also related to severe tooth decay, trauma, or damaged fillings, so visiting a dentist for a checkup is recommended.
If you need a root canal, why wait? We can help you today! Call Kenneth Woo, DDS and Associates today to schedule a dental consultation in Kensington and Gaithersburg, MD. One of our dentists can get you out of pain and make your smile healthy again!