Most dental problems are hardly noticeable in their early stages. Root canal treatments repair and salvage teeth that are severely decayed or infected. The therapy entails typically on removing infected blood vessels and nerves, cleaning the interior of the tooth structure and sealing it to prevent re-infections. Here are four symptoms that should help you figure out if you need a root canal treatment.

1. You have decaying teeth

Dentists will pass your decaying tooth for root canal treatment in Mesa when the cavity eats into more than half the tooth and sets in deep to the base of the tooth. At this point, only root canals can save the tooth and prevent further infections to the gums.

2. Cracked and chipped teeth

Exerting immense external force on teeth may cause cracks and chips on the tooth. Your teeth may suffer cracks from eating hard foods, physical trauma from accidents and falls, grinding teeth, or in cases where dental treatments go awry. These cracks make excellent entry points for bacteria to get into the internal part of the tooth’s structure. Over time, they cause infections, destroying the pulp. If left untreated, the damage continues to spread further, causing pain and other severe problems. Root canal treatments intervene before the infections grow worse.

3. Increased sensitivity to heat or cold

Heightened sensitivity when sipping some hot coffee or ice-cold soda could be a sign that you need to head into the dentist’s office for a root canal treatment. If you feel a dull ache that progresses into a sharp pain once the hot or cold beverage hits the teeth, you might want to consider getting a root canal treatment. Increased sensitivity emanates from damaged or exposed blood vessels and nerves. It could be from a crack to the enamel, thinning enamel or a developing cavity.

4. Swollen gums

Swollen gums are a sign of multiple dental problems. However, if your gums are inflamed and swollen with a localized pimple, you might be a good candidate for the root canal treatment. The pimple normally sits underneath the tooth root’s position and could be a clear sign of infected pulp in the tooth. Your dentist will examine the swollen gums and determine if the root canal treatment is the best option for you.

If you find yourself struggling with any of these symptoms mentioned above, you might consider checking in with a dentist at Mesa, AZ. The sooner you treat the conditions, the better your chances of preventing further damage.