In the past, injured or badly decayed teeth often had to be removed. Today, they often can be saved through root canal treatment. Root 
canal therapy will allow you to keep your tooth functional for decades. Dr. Jack Gaffey and Dr. Angela Gaffey of Cumberland Dental, which is located in Adelaide, SA, offer a full range of dental services. Here are five signs you may need a root canal.
1. You have a toothache.
Severe tooth pain upon chewing or application of pressure is a sign you may need a root canal. The pain can range from mild to severe. A root canal is done to eliminate that pain. Root canal treatment has the reputation of being painful. However, many patients have reported that the procedure is no more painful than getting a dental filling.
2. Cold and hot bother you.
Prolonged sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures is a sign you may need a root canal. Tooth sensitivity causes a sharp pain when the tooth is exposed to cold and hot temperatures through beverages and foods. Your tooth will no longer be sensitive to cold and hot temperatures after root canal treatment.
3. Your gums are swollen.
Gum swelling is a sign that a root canal is needed. Gum inflammation is often associated with infection, although it doesn’t always mean an infection is present. The inflammation can range from being slight to quite pronounced.
4. You have a bump on your gum.
A pimple-like bump or swollen area on your gum is a sign that root canal treatment is needed. This bump may go away and then come back. This bump is usually an accumulation of pus, which is associated with infection. Your dentist will treat this by performing a root canal procedure.
5. You have a discolored tooth.
One discolored tooth is a sign that root canal treatment is needed. When the roots of the tooth that needs a root canal have died, the tooth may turn black, gray, brown, or dark yellow. Tooth discoloration is also related to trauma, damaged dental fillings, or severe decay, so visiting a dental professional for a checkup is recommended.
If you need a root canal, don't wait. Call Cumberland Dental at today to schedule a dental appointment in Adelaide, SA. Delaying a root canal will only lead to prolonged pain, suffering, and tooth loss.
