Think you need endodontic surgery? Going through dental pain can be unbearable, especially if the pain comes out of nowhere. At Short Pump Dental, we strive to educate patients on everything related to dental care. This includes letting patients know the signs and symptoms of serious issues, such as endodontic infections or diseases.
In order to understand the signs and reasons why you need endodontic surgery, you’ll need to know the inner layers of the tooth. The outermost layer of the tooth is the enamel, which protects the tooth and acts as the main surface for chewing food. The next level is the dentin that surrounds the third layer, known as the pulp. The pulp contains all of the nerves and blood vessels in the tooth. If the pulp or root is infected, pain and other symptoms occur. Do not hesitate to schedule an examination to determine the extent and cause of the pain. If endodontic surgery is necessary, there will be specific signs to look out for.
Signs to Look Out For
- Pain After Cleaning- While it can be common to experience pain from sensitivity to touching or cleaning your teeth, the pain one will feel that requires endodontic surgery will be much more severe. A general dentist may be able to treat a minor infection with non-surgical means, but if the infection is too great, then an endodontic surgery may be required.
- Increased Sensitivity to Hot & Cold Foods/Drinks- When you consume anything hot or cold, you may get a slight reaction on your teeth. However, if the reaction is greater than normal, then you may need an endodontic procedure. If you react to any drink or food item, then you should get an examination. The pain can be due to the enamel on the teeth being weaker or the inside of the tooth having an infection.
- Tenderness- If you feel intense pain from hardly putting any pressure on your teeth, endodontic surgery may be necessary. If you feel pain when chewing on food or from the slightest touch of a toothbrush, then you need to schedule an examination as soon as possible. People may assume that this pain is only temporary or bearable, but the pain will only get worse if the infection spreads.
- Swelling of Gums- If you notice any odd swelling around a specific tooth, then a root canal may be the most efficient method to treat and save that tooth. When the pulp of the tooth is infected, it can slowly spread to the gums and even the jawbone surrounding the tooth. When this occurs, it is even more crucial to seek professional help.
- Abnormal Discoloration- While teeth gradually discolor from consuming certain foods and drinks, it is not common to see an unnatural drastic discoloration. The discoloration is the result of an infection spreading through the tooth to the gums and jawbone. Major discoloration of a tooth is a sign of an infection that will most likely require endodontic surgery to treat.
- Dental Abscess- A dental abscess forms from an infection at the bottom of the tooth root. A traditional dentist cannot treat a dental abscess without a form of surgery. It is crucial to seek endodontic surgery since a dental abscess causes incredible pain in and around the specific tooth.
- Tiny Bumps- Bumps will appear to be a pimple on the gums near or around the infected tooth that is causing pain. If you notice this and other symptoms, then you will most likely need professional treatment.
Get Endodontic Care at Short Pump Dental
If you notice any or all of the symptoms above, contact Short Pump Dental immediately. We see patients with emergency dental problems. We offer a variety of dental care services as well. If you would like to set up an appointment, reach out to our Henrico, VA office. We are happy to answer any questions or concerns you have. Get the care you need today!