A root canal is a dental procedure that takes out infected pulp from a tooth. It is a common procedure and can alleviate your pain and help you avoid tooth extraction. However, it can be difficult to determine when you actually need a root canal.

Here are a few signs that you may require a root canal soon.

You Have Frequent Pain

Experiencing slight pain in a tooth every once in a blue moon might not be a huge deal. However, if you experience sharp pain multiple times a day, you might have an infection in your tooth. You might need a root canal to correct the problem.

You Chipped Your Tooth

Did you recently chip your tooth in an accident or by eating a hard food? If so, your tooth might be susceptible to infection. Bacteria can make its way inside your tooth easier if you have a crack. Make an appointment with your dentist soon to find out if you require a root canal or not.

Your Tooth Is Discolored

If you brush and floss regularly and avoid tooth-staining foods, you might wonder why your tooth is discolored. In this case, you might need a root canal. If there is an infection inside your tooth, it can make the tooth look gray in color.

You Wince When Consuming Hot and Cold Foods and Beverages

When your tooth is infected, it will become quite sensitive to heat and cold. If you feel sharp pain in your tooth whenever you drink a cup of coffee or eat ice cream, it is definitely a cause for concern. The nerves inside your tooth may be infected and a root canal is required

Your Gums Are Inflamed

Do your gums look more swollen than normal? If the answer is yes, you may need a root canal. When the pulp of your tooth is infected, it can cause your gum tissues to swell. An abscess may also form on your gums, which can cause pain and bad breath.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should see your dentist soon to find out if you will need a root canal or not.

If you are displaying any of these signs, a root canal may be in order. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as you can. If you ignore the symptoms for too long, it can cause additional problems down the road.