Tooth pain can be difficult to ignore, but not every toothache requires the same type of treatment. Sometimes pain or sensitivity can be a sign that the inside of a tooth has become infected or damaged.

In these situations, a root canal may be recommended to remove the infection, protect the tooth, and help you maintain your natural smile.

If you live in Renton, WA, understanding the warning signs can help you know when it is time to schedule a dental examination.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental treatment used to treat problems affecting the inside of a tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located.

When this area becomes infected or inflamed because of deep decay, cracks, trauma, or other damage, treatment may be necessary to prevent the problem from getting worse.

During a root canal, the damaged or infected tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is sealed. A restoration such as a dental crown may also be recommended to protect the tooth.

7 Signs You May Need a Root Canal

su1. Persistent Tooth Pain

One of the most common warning signs is tooth pain that does not go away.

The pain may be constant or may come and go throughout the day. It can also become worse when you chew or put pressure on the affected tooth.

Persistent pain does not necessarily mean you need a root canal, but it is a reason to have the tooth examined by a dentist.

2. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

If a tooth hurts when you drink something hot or cold, there may be an underlying problem.

Temporary sensitivity can have several causes. However, intense or lingering sensitivity may indicate irritation or damage affecting the inside of the tooth.

A dental examination can help determine the cause and whether treatment is necessary.

3. Pain When Biting or Chewing

Does one particular tooth hurt when you bite down?

Pain while chewing can sometimes be associated with decay, a cracked tooth, inflammation, or an infection.

If the pain continues or becomes worse, schedule an appointment with your dentist rather than waiting for it to disappear.

4. Swelling Around the Tooth or Gums

Swelling around a specific tooth can be a sign of inflammation or infection.

You may also notice tenderness in the gums near the affected area. In some cases, an infection can create an abscess.

Dental infections can worsen without treatment, so swelling accompanied by tooth pain should be evaluated promptly.

5. A Pimple or Bump on the Gums

A small bump that appears on the gum near a painful tooth can sometimes indicate an infection.

It may come and go, but that does not necessarily mean the underlying problem has gone away.

If you notice a recurring bump near a tooth, contact a dentist for an examination.

6. Darkening or Discoloration of a Tooth

A tooth that becomes noticeably darker than the surrounding teeth may have experienced internal damage.

Trauma, decay, or damage to the tooth’s inner tissue can sometimes cause discoloration.

Your dentist can examine the tooth and determine whether the discoloration is related