How Do You Know If You Need A Root Canal?

A report released by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) in 2020 shows that a whopping 25 million root canal therapies are performed each year. This clearly shows that root canal therapy is one of the most in-demand services in the dental industry.

Root canal or endodontic therapy is used for patients experiencing tooth decay and infection. If you have any of these or are experiencing severe pain, this might be the proper treatment for you. Here at Crossroads Family Dentistry, our dentists use 3D digital technology that will allow us to see the tooth’s root condition. This will also help us determine how to ensure that the tooth is properly cleaned and filled during the treatment.

In Root Canal therapy, infected nerve tissues and the tooth’s root canal are removed. Then, it will be cleaned, sterilized, and shaped into the root canal, which will later be filled. It will then be sealed with a crown or an antimicrobial resin material to preserve the root. This procedure will help restore the tooth’s function and restore its health.

5 Root Canal Symptoms

Now that you have an idea of what a root canal is and how it works, you now want to know if it is the right treatment for you. Although you should visit our Colorado Spring dentists to ensure the proper treatment for your teeth’s condition, here are some symptoms that you may need to be aware of.

Constant toothache

Among the symptoms you may need a root canal is persistent tooth pain. The pain may go away from time to time, but you may want to consider visiting a dentist if it happens too often.

The pain is usually felt not just on the tooth itself but may even go deep. This includes the jaw, face, and other teeth.

Swollen gums

If one day you wake up and notice that your gums are swelling, it might be a sign that you need a root canal. A swollen gum may make it appear as if you have a pimple inside your mouth.

This is usually caused by dead pulp tissues that have been infected and resulted in swelling. The pus in the pimple could cause an unpleasant mouth odor.

Gum decay

There are many reasons why gum decay happens to patients. Some of these include:

Periodontal Disease
Poor oral hygiene
Teeth Grinding
Genes

If you are experiencing any of these, make sure to see a dentist and get the proper treatment.

Cracked tooth

This is very common and likely to happen to anyone, but it may turn into something severe if left untreated.

A dental filling may fix a cracked tooth. A cracked tooth may have also damaged a nerve and could cause tooth pain in some cases.

Sensitivity to hot or cold

If you are experiencing severe pain when eating hot or cold foods, you may need an immediate root canal. This occurs whenever a nerve and blood vessel in the teeth are damaged.

To learn more about Crossroads Family Dentistry and our root canal services, contact us today at (719) 596-3481 or visit our website.

Yellow Teeth FAQs

How do I get rid of yellow teeth?

‍Professional teeth whitening treatments, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks can help remove yellow stains.

Why are my teeth yellow even though I brush?

‍Yellow teeth despite brushing can be due to factors like genetics, aging, diet, smoking, or certain medications. Thin enamel or persistent plaque can also contribute.

Are yellow teeth permanent?

‍Yellow teeth are not necessarily permanent. Professional whitening treatments and maintaining good oral hygiene can often restore whiteness.

What color are healthy teeth?

‍Healthy teeth typically range from white to light yellow. The natural shade can vary based on genetics and enamel thickness.

Can teeth turn white again naturally?

‍Teeth can become whiter naturally with proper oral hygiene, avoiding staining foods, and using whitening toothpaste, but professional treatments are more effective.

How do you rebuild enamel?

‍Rebuilding enamel involves using fluoride toothpaste, consuming enamel-strengthening foods, and avoiding acidic foods and drinks that erode enamel.

Does vaping stain teeth?

‍Yes, vaping can stain teeth due to the nicotine and other chemicals present in the vapor, leading to yellow or brown discoloration.

What vitamin deficiency causes yellow teeth?

‍A deficiency in vitamin D or calcium can affect enamel health, potentially leading to yellowing teeth.

Can yellow teeth be white again?

‍Yes, yellow teeth can often be whitened with professional treatments, proper oral care, and avoiding staining substances.

Are yellow teeth permanent?

‍No, yellow teeth are not necessarily permanent. Whitening treatments and good oral hygiene can help restore their natural color.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing an Uneven Smile

What causes an uneven smile?

An uneven smile can be caused by various factors, including misaligned teeth, a crooked jaw, aging, facial paralysis (e.g., Bell’s Palsy), stroke, trauma, smoking, and conditions like torticollis. Understanding the cause is key to determining the right treatment.

Can an uneven smile affect my dental health?

Yes, an unaligned smile can lead to dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty in cleaning teeth. Misalignment can also cause discomfort while chewing and affect the overall health of your teeth and gums.

What are my options to correct an uneven smile?

Treatment options for an uneven smile include clear braces, Invisalign, traditional braces, and, in some cases, surgery. The best option depends on the severity of the misalignment and your specific needs, which a dental professional can help you determine.

How long does it take to fix an uneven smile with braces or Invisalign?

The duration of treatment varies based on the severity of the misalignment and the type of treatment chosen. Clear braces and Invisalign typically take between 12 to 24 months, while traditional braces may take longer for more complex cases.

When should I seek professional help for my uneven smile?

You should consult a dentist if you notice significant changes in your smile, experience pain or discomfort, or find it difficult to chew properly. Early intervention can prevent further dental issues and ensure the best treatment outcome.