Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Approximately 15 million root canals are performed every year according to the American Association of Endodontists. The purpose of a root canalroot canal is to give an infected tooth a second chance. Here are a few signs that you may need a root canal, an effective and common treatment that's available at Dr. W. Timothy Brooks' Huntsville, AL, family dentistry office.

Intense Pain in Tooth or Jaw
Dental pain can range from a mild sensitivity to an intense, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away. If a patient is experiencing any sensation of pain that disrupts eating, talking or sleeping, that could be a sign of a growing infection (tooth decay). Infected tissue can be removed with root canal therapy. When the pain feels like it’s coming from the jaw, there may be an abscess, which can also be remedied with a root canal.

Persistent Bad Breath and Sour Taste in the Mouth
Bad breath is often a symptom of a lack of regular brushing or flossing. Morning breath is common and normal after eight hours of sleeping. But if the unpleasant smell persists even after daily maintenance, the problem could be a sour smell coming from an infected tooth. If you have very bad breath that doesn't go away or a constant sour taste in your mouth, have your teeth inspected at Dr. Brooks' Huntsville family dentistry office immediately.

Unexplained Pimples, Sores, Growths or Swelling
One other possible sign of a tooth infection is the formation of sores or pimples on the gums. Sometimes called gum boils, these growths can become red, inflamed and painful. In some cases, people who have wisdom tooth infections will have swollen lymph glands in the jaw.

Call to Schedule a Root Canal Procedure
The sooner the tooth is treated the better the chance of long-term success. Call (256) 883-8008 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brooks.

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