You might not know when you need a root canal, but there are a few signs to watch out for that indicate your tooth might be infected or damaged. Here are some common symptoms that could mean it’s time to visit Espire Dental Northwest OKC for an evaluation:

• Persistent tooth pain: If you experience ongoing or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, it could be a sign that the pulp is infected.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold: Sharp, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures often indicates nerve damage inside the tooth.
• Swelling or tenderness: Swollen gums or tenderness around a specific tooth might indicate an underlying infection that requires treatment.
• Discoloration: A tooth that becomes darker in color could be a sign that the inner tissue is damaged or decaying.
• Pimple on the gums: A small, pimple-like bump on your gums near the affected tooth may be a sign of an abscess, which is an infection that needs immediate attention.

If you’re persistently experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek urgent dental care as soon as possible. Root canals are a straightforward solution that can save your teeth, relieve pain, and prevent further complications.

A root canal is a dental procedure that treats damage or infection to a tooth's soft inner tissue (also known as the pulp). The pulp is essential in helping a tooth develop in its early stages, but once a tooth is fully grown, it no longer needs the inner tissue. When the tissue becomes infected or inflamed—often due to deep cavities, cracks, or trauma—it can cause pain and sensitivity and even lead to tooth loss if untreated.

During the root canal process, we remove the damaged tissue, clean the inside, and seal it to prevent further infection. Our OKC patients are often pleasantly surprised with their comfort levels during the procedure and compare the sensation to a standard filling at our practice. Most importantly, root canals are highly effective in saving teeth from extraction.

The Benefits of Root Canals

Root canals often get a bad rap, but they’re a critical procedure that offers long-term benefits and significant pain relief. Here’s why a root canal at Espire Dental Northwest OKC is an excellent option for patients dealing with tooth infection or severe decay:

1. Save Your Natural Tooth
   The primary goal of a root canal is to save your natural tooth. Keeping your original tooth in place helps maintain your natural bite, chewing function, and jaw structure. Losing a tooth can lead to shifting your remaining teeth and even bone loss in your jaw over time. A root canal allows us to preserve your tooth and avoid these complications.‍
2. Relieve Pain and Discomfort
   If you’ve been experiencing pain due to an infection or decay, a root canal will eliminate the source of discomfort. Many patients find that the relief they feel after the procedure is immediate. Once the infected pulp is removed, you can return to eating, talking, and smiling without lingering pain.‍
3. Avoid More Extensive Treatments
   ‍By addressing an infection or damaged tooth early with a root canal, you can prevent the need for more invasive treatments down the road, such as an extraction or implant. Preserving your natural tooth with a root canal is far more straightforward than replacing a missing tooth later.‍
4. Maintain Your Smile’s Natural Appearance
   Once a root canal is completed, we typically place a custom dental crown over the tooth to restore its strength and appearance. Crowns are designed to look and feel like your teeth, ensuring your smile stays as beautiful and natural as ever.

At Espire Dental Northwest OKC, we focus on making root canals a comfortable and seamless experience. We use advanced technology to ensure your procedure is quick, efficient, and without pain.

If you’re dealing with tooth pain, sensitivity, or other signs of infection, don’t wait—schedule a consultation at Espire Dental Northwest OKC today. Our experienced team, located near Hefner Parkway and Edgewater Lake Pointe, is here to provide the relief you need with a gentle touch. Call us today to book your appointment and take the first step toward restoring your healthy, pain-free smile!

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