Root Canal Infection Symptoms: What Are the Warning Signs?
A root canal infection refers to the infection of the dental pulp inside of a tooth. Getting endodontic treatment for root canal infections helps prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the mouth. Prompt treatment is crucial, but you may wonder what are the most common signs of a root canal infection.
The team at Lake Area Dentistry would like to point out five common warning signs of root canal infections. If you live in or around Lake Charles, DeQuincy, or Sulphur, LA, our dentists are ready to help you.
1. Toothache
Pain is the most common symptom of root canal infections. This pain could take different forms. For some patients, there is persistent pain in the infected tooth. Other patients may notice a sharp pain when they bite down on something.
Regardless of how this pain manifests, a toothache is a sign that there’s an issue a dentist should examine.
2. Darkening of the Tooth
As oral bacteria infects the pulp inside of a tooth, this can cause the tooth itself to change color. As the pulp in the tooth gets inflamed, the pulp can turn yellowish-brown or a much darker color. This winds up affecting the shade of the tooth itself.
Using a dental crown to cap the treated tooth helps conceal discoloration and also helps prevent tooth pain.
3. Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms as part of your body’s response to a dental infection. If you notice a bump on your gumline that looks like a pimple, that’s generally a major warning sign that you need root canal therapy, in addition to the help of a professional to drain the abscess safely.
4. Chronic Bad Breath
Bad breath will often accompany a root canal infection as it develops. Some patients will also notice a persistent bad taste in their mouth as a result of the tooth infection. These symptoms could worsen as a dental abscess develops.
5. Fever
Heightened body temperature is a common response to an infection. If you’re running a fever or notice that the gum tissue around the infected tooth is warm, it’s crucial that you speak with a dentist as soon as possible in order to get the care you need.
What to Do if You Notice These Symptoms
If you notice any of the above symptoms, it’s important to schedule a visit to one of Lake Area Dentistry’s offices. We’ll be able to examine your teeth and gums and determine if a root canal is right for you.
The sooner you get in touch with us, the faster we can provide pain relief. Rapid action can also avoid more serious health emergencies.
How Our Dentists Can Help with the Treatment Process
At Lake Area Dentistry, our dentists serving the Lake Charles area want to ensure you get the care you need while feeling comfortable. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry to promote relaxation, helping you feel free from anxiety and stress during your entire visit.
Experiencing the Symptoms We Listed?
Contact Our Dentists Today
If you notice any of the above warning signs of a root canal infection or have questions about other dental health issues, contact our dental offices today. You can also reach us by phone and set up an appointment at the office that’s closest to you.
- Lake Charles: (337) 478-8470
- Moss Bluff: (337) 855-2742
- DeQuincy: (337) 786-6221
- Kinder: (337) 738-2598
- Carlyss: (337) 243-6152
