Tooth pain is never something you should ignore. While a mild ache can sometimes go away on its own, severe or persistent pain is often a sign that the pulp inside your tooth is infected or damaged. When this happens, a root canal treatment is often the best way to save your natural tooth and relieve the pain.
Severe and Persistent Tooth Pain
The most common sign that you need a root canal is deep, lingering pain. This discomfort might radiate to your jaw, face, or other teeth. Whether it is a constant throbbing or a sharp pain when you bite down, it shouldn't be ignored.
Prolonged Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
Do you wince every time you drink hot coffee or eat ice cream? If the sensitivity lingers long after the hot or cold food item is gone, it often indicates damaged blood vessels and nerves inside the tooth
Swollen or Tender Gums
An infected tooth can cause the surrounding gums to become swollen, tender, or inflamed. You might even notice a small pimple-like bump (known as a gum boil or fistula) on the gums near the painful tooth, which is a sign of pus draining from an infection.
