10 Signs You Need a Root Canal (And When to See a Dentist)

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Experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity? Discover the 10 warning signs you may need a root canal and learn when to see a dentist before the problem gets worse.

Tooth pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing agony. While not every toothache requires a root canal, certain symptoms may indicate a serious infection inside your tooth. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to worsening pain, abscess formation, or even tooth loss.

In this guide, we’ll cover the 10 most common signs you need a root canal and explain when it’s time to see your dentist.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth). The inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection.

Root canal treatment is designed to:

  • Relieve pain
  • Save your natural tooth
  • Prevent infection from spreading

1. Persistent Tooth Pain

One of the most common signs you need a root canal is ongoing tooth pain that doesn’t go away.

Pain may:

  • Feel deep inside the tooth
  • Radiate to your jaw, face, or other teeth
  • Worsen when chewing or applying pressure

If your tooth pain lasts more than a few days, schedule a dental appointment.

2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

Temporary sensitivity is common. However, lingering sensitivity (especially lasting 30 seconds or longer after exposure) may indicate nerve damage inside the tooth.

If sipping coffee or eating ice cream causes sharp or throbbing pain that doesn’t fade quickly, it’s time to see a dentist.

3. Swollen or Tender Gums

Swelling around a painful tooth can signal infection.

You may notice:

  • Puffy or inflamed gums
  • Tenderness when touched
  • A small pimple-like bump on the gum (abscess)

This bump may release pus and indicate a serious infection that requires immediate treatment.

4. Tooth Discoloration

A tooth that turns gray, dark yellow, or brown could mean the internal pulp is dying due to infection or trauma.

Discoloration combined with pain or sensitivity is a strong indicator you may need root canal therapy.

5. Pain When Chewing or Touching the Tooth

If biting down causes sharp pain, the infection may have spread to the surrounding nerves and tissues.

This type of discomfort often worsens over time without treatment.

6. A Chipped or Cracked Tooth

A crack or chip can allow bacteria to enter the inner pulp of your tooth. Even if the damage seems small, it can lead to infection.

If you’ve experienced dental trauma followed by pain or sensitivity, get evaluated promptly.

7. Prolonged Sensitivity to Pressure

Does your tooth hurt even when you’re not eating? Persistent pressure sensitivity could signal inflamed pulp tissue inside the tooth.

This is especially concerning if the pain feels deep or throbbing.

8. Gum Abscess or Pimple on the Gums

A recurring bump on the gum near a painful tooth may indicate a dental abscess.

Symptoms may include:

  • Bad taste in your mouth
  • Pus drainage
  • Swelling in the face or jaw

This is a dental emergency and requires immediate attention.

9. Loose Tooth

Infection can weaken the bone supporting your tooth, making it feel loose.

Adult teeth should never feel mobile. If you notice movement along with pain or swelling, contact your dentist immediately.

10. Deep Decay

Large cavities that extend into the pulp often require root canal treatment.

If decay is not addressed early, bacteria can infect the inner tooth, causing severe pain and inflammation.

When Should You See a Dentist?

You should schedule an appointment if you experience:

  • Tooth pain lasting more than 2–3 days
  • Swelling in your gums or face
  • Fever with dental pain
  • Pus or drainage
  • Severe pain when chewing

Early treatment increases the chances of saving your tooth.

Delaying care can lead to:

  • Spread of infection
  • Tooth extraction
  • Bone loss
  • More expensive treatment

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Modern root canal procedures are typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area, making the procedure relatively painless.

Most patients report that the procedure actually relieves pain, rather than causing it.

Can You Avoid a Root Canal?

In some early cases, deep decay may be treated with a filling or crown. However, once the pulp becomes infected, a root canal is usually necessary to save the tooth.

Preventive tips:

  • Brush twice daily
  • Floss regularly
  • Visit your dentist every 6 months
  • Treat cavities early

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a root canal take?

Most procedures take 60–90 minutes, depending on the tooth and severity.

How long does a root canal last?

With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Is extraction better than a root canal?

Saving your natural tooth is usually the best option. Extraction may require implants or bridges, which can be more costly.

Final Thoughts

Tooth infections don’t heal on their own. If you notice any of these 10 signs you need a root canal, don’t wait for the pain to worsen.

Prompt treatment can:

  • Relieve discomfort
  • Prevent serious complications
  • Save your natural smile

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect an infection, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

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