Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Medically reviewed by Dr Matthew Sng , Clinical Director
Recognizing the Warning Signs That You May Need Root Canal Treatment
A root canal treats a tooth whose pulp (nerve) has become infected or inflamed. Some signs that can point to it:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is gone
- Pain when biting or chewing on a particular tooth
- A persistent, deep toothache
- A pimple-like bump on the gum near the tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the gum
- A tooth that's darkening in colour
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, and the problem is found on a routine X-ray. These signs can also have other causes, so they're worth getting checked rather than self-diagnosing. Treating an infected tooth early often means it can be saved with a root canal rather than removed.
