6 Ways to Tell If You Might Need a Root Canal

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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / October 15, 2025 / NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / October 15, 2025 / If you've got persistent pain in one of your teeth, it might be a sign that you need a root canal. A root canal is a common dental treatment to help remove bacteria that have taken up residence inside the pulp of a tooth. A dentist will clean out the infected pulp, fill in the remaining space using specialized material, and seal the tooth with a permanent crown to restore your smile.1 They may use localized anesthesia to numb your mouth, making the procedure far less painful than you might expect.

Root canals can bring up all kinds of anxiety, from worries about your experience during the procedure to concerns about cost. Some of this anxiety may be fueled by not knowing when a root canal is necessary. Here are six common signs you might need a root canal so you can take control of your dental health.

1. Severe tooth pain

One of the biggest signs that a root canal may be necessary is regular tooth pain.2 This pain may be persistent throughout the day or only noticeable when you bite down. You might also feel pain in the surrounding area, including the gums and jaw.

2. Sensitivity to heat and cold

If your tooth becomes overly sensitive to hot drinks like coffee or cold foods like ice cream, it may indicate that you need a root canal. This sensitivity may linger even after you've stopped eating or drinking.3

3. Pimples on your gums

Bacteria inside your tooth may cause pimples to appear on your gums near the affected area. The gums might also be sensitive and swollen, making it difficult to eat. You may also notice your breath worsening or a persistent bad taste in your mouth.4

4. Loose teeth

If there is an infection inside a tooth requiring a root canal, the tooth may start to feel loose. This is because the infection weakens the nearby bone, causing instability.

5. Discolored teeth

Gray or black coloration of the tooth may indicate that the pulp inside the tooth has started to decay. This may be easier to see in your front teeth than your back molars.

6. Cracked tooth

While a root canal may not be necessary every time a tooth becomes cracked or chipped, this may allow bacteria easier access to the sensitive pulp inside the tooth. Always check with your dentist anytime you discover a cracked tooth or cavity.

Root canals may seem overwhelming, but by paying attention to these signs, you can catch the problem early and avoid any complications. Talk to your dentist if you notice any issues that you might think require a root canal. The process is quick, often only taking an hour, meaning you might be on your way to relief sooner than you might think. The most important thing is not to let your fear of the procedure or the root canal cost get in the way of treatment. It may seem scary, but a root canal can help you find relief in the long run.

Contact Information:

Name: Sonakshi Murze

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Job Title: Manager

SOURCE: iQuanti