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Tooth pain, sensitivity, or discoloration are common signs that you need a root canal.
However, the same symptoms may also just suggest tooth decay that requires a dental filling or another dental issue.
How do you know if what you need is root canal treatment or a different solution?
We break it down below.
When Is a Dental Filling Not Enough?
If a cavity is caught early, a simple filling can solve the problem. But once decay reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, a filling alone won’t stop the infection.
Ask yourself the following questions to help determine if you may require root canal therapy:
Is the Pain Sharp or Dull?
Root canal-related pain can feel different from a regular toothache. You might experience a dull, deep ache or sharp jolts of pain during chewing. Sensitivity to pressure is also common.
Are There No Symptoms at All?
Surprisingly, some infected teeth show no symptoms, which is why they can go unnoticed until the damage gets very bad. Dentists often detect them during X-rays. That’s why routine checkups are so important: they catch problems before they become painful.
Pay Attention to Bad Taste or Odor
Occasional bad breath might happen after eating something with a strong smell or not drinking enough water for the day. However, chronic bad breath or taste often signifies an underlying dental concern. If you notice a bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away, or foul breath despite good hygiene, it might be due to a chronic infection inside a tooth.
Visit Us for Root Canal Treatment in Indianapolis, Carmel, or Danville, IN
Not sure if your tooth pain means root canal treatment? Book a visit with Cornerstone Family Dentistry and get a clear answer from a team you can trust. Our dentist in Indianapolis helps you get to the bottom of your tooth issues and determine if you need a root canal. With regular dental cleanings, we can often catch the problem before it requires root canal therapy, but if you do end up needing this treatment, count on us for an efficient and comfortable process.
Schedule your consultation today!
