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Am I a Candidate for a Root Canal? | Watertown Dental MN

For many dental patients, avoiding a root canal is a high priority. However, a root canal is actually an excellent solution for saving your natural tooth. This treatment allows your dentist to remove the decayed or damaged portion of your tooth pulp while protecting the healthy portion. In the end, the procedure is worth the time and expense to keep the natural healthy part of your tooth.

When is Root Canal Treatment Recommended?

Toothaches and sensitive teeth are common issues, so it can often be challenging to determine when a dental visit is actually necessary. When your tooth pulp becomes inflamed or infected, you will begin to feel symptoms that prompt you to take action. If you experience symptoms including:

  • Toothache – These are pretty common, but certain toothaches point to the possibility of an inflamed/infected pulp. If you experience sharp pain in the middle of the night that leads into a generalized headache, then your tooth’s root may be suffering.
  • Abcess – If you see a bump near the top part of a tooth and/or pus present in the mouth, then there is a good chance a root canal will be required.
  • Sensitivity – Extreme pain to hot and cold foods is a good indicator.
  • Discoloration – Dark discoloration on the tooth points to a deteriorated pulp. This is a severe sign.

It is essential to note that if you experience constant pain to contact your dentist immediately. Waiting could potentially mean that the tooth cannot be saved and has to be removed and replaced. Saving the healthy portion of your tooth is more beneficial to the health of your overall mouth.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are experiencing possible symptoms of tooth decay, contact your dentist in Watertown today to schedule your consultation. During your visit, your dentist will examine your condition and recommend the best treatment options for your dental health.