To understand the root canal procedure, it is important to first understand the general makeup and structure of a tooth. The tooth consists of a crown, the part you can see inside the oral cavity, with the tooth root right below it, and a structure called the pulp situated in the center.

The outermost layer of your teeth is called the enamel, which consists of a mineral called calcium phosphate. This layer is responsible for protecting the internal systems of the tooth from the wear and tear caused by external forces. Underneath the enamel is dentin, a hard tissue through which we can sense temperature changes. Beneath the dentin, the pulp holds many blood vessels and nerves that play a key role in nourishing the tooth and acting as a sensor of pain.

Root canal is a dental procedure used to salvage a tooth that has decayed, become infected, and sustained damage past a certain point. Cavities should be dealt with when they’re on the enamel, but when the decay is allowed to progress and make its way all the way down to the soft pulp of the tooth, more invasive interventions are required to help save it and prevent damage to the surrounding organs, such as your gums and face.

The root canal process consists of clearing out the tooth decay from inside the pulp and sealing the tooth itself. If you haven’t been caring for your oral hygiene as much as needed, you could use a trip to the dentist.

Here are a few telltale signs it’s time for a root canal procedure.

1. Pain that Won’t Go Away

Persistent pain in your tooth, one that you feel all the time and which becomes a hindrance in going about your day peacefully, could be a sign your pulp is infected. Although tooth pain is also a symptom of other dental conditions like gum disease or cavities, it is worth speaking to your dentist to clarify whether or not you should get a root canal done.

2. Sensitivity to Heat or Cold

Whether it’s a dull ache or a sharp sting, your tooth being sensitive to hot or cool food items like tea and ice cream could be an indication the nerves inside your tooth pulp have decayed or become infected.

3. Tooth Discoloration

A more visual sign, the appearance of your tooth becoming blackened or grayed out, could be a consequence of it not receiving enough blood supply via the tooth pulp, necessitating a checkup to see whether it’s damaged.

Rapha Dental is a general dentistry facility based in New Jersey. We offer dental treatments and care at the most cost-effective prices, with our services ranging from dental cosmetic procedures, root canal procedures, tooth extractions, and so much more.

If you’re suffering from a tooth pulp infection, reach out to us at Rapha Dental and book your appointment comfortably for a checkup.