The nerve of a tooth can become inflamed or infected for several reasons, and it usually sends signals first. Here are seven signs that your tooth may need attention from a dentist, possibly with root canal treatment.
1. Severe, throbbing toothache
Pain that comes on by itself, throbs, or keeps you awake at night is a classic sign of inflamed pulp.
2. Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
A quick twinge that fades at once is usually mild sensitivity. Pain that lingers for 30 seconds or more after the hot or cold is gone suggests the nerve is irritated. Compare this with ordinary tooth sensitivity.
3. Pain when biting or touching
Tenderness when you chew or tap the tooth can mean infection around the tip of the root.
4. A darkening tooth
A tooth turning grey or dark can mean the nerve inside has died or been damaged, often after an injury.
5. Swollen, tender gums
Swelling near the tooth, sometimes with a bad taste, may indicate an abscess.
6. A pimple-like bump on the gum
A small bump that comes and goes, sometimes releasing pus, is a draining infection. The pressure may feel relieved, but the infection remains.
7. A deep cavity, crack or past trauma
Deep decay or a crack can let bacteria reach the pulp, even if it has not started to hurt.
What to do next
Book an examination as soon as you can. We will test the tooth, take an X-ray and explain whether it needs a filling, root canal treatment, or another approach. If you have swelling of the face, a fever or difficulty swallowing, seek care the same day. See what to do before you see a dentist.
Learn more about the procedure in root canal myths and facts, or about our root canal service.