What Are the Signs You May Need a Root Canal?

December 5, 2024

Root canals are essential procedures that save damaged or infected teeth, preserving your natural smile and oral health. Recognizing the signs that you may need a root canal can help you seek timely treatment and avoid more severe complications. At My WOW Dental, we’re here to guide you through the process. Here are the key symptoms to watch for:

1. Persistent Tooth Pain

Ongoing tooth pain that doesn’t go away may indicate an infection or damage to the tooth’s pulp. This pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, severe discomfort and may worsen when you chew or apply pressure.

2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

If you experience lingering sensitivity to hot drinks, cold foods, or even air, it could signal damage or inflammation in the tooth’s inner tissue. The discomfort may persist even after the source of heat or cold is removed.

3. Swollen or Tender Gums

Swelling, redness, or tenderness near a specific tooth can be a sign of an infection or abscess. In some cases, you might also notice a small bump (fistula) on the gums, which can drain pus.

4. Darkening or Discoloration of the Tooth

A tooth that becomes grayish or darkened may indicate the death of the inner pulp tissue. This discoloration happens because the tooth is no longer receiving nutrients, often requiring a root canal to save it.

5. Pain While Chewing or Touching the Tooth

If you feel discomfort or sharp pain when chewing, biting, or even lightly tapping the tooth, it may suggest the tooth is damaged or infected, and the nerve inside is inflamed.

6. Persistent Bad Breath or Taste

Chronic bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth can be caused by an infection in a tooth or abscess, signaling the need for immediate dental care.

When to See a Dentist

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an appointment with My WOW Dental as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can save your tooth and prevent the need for extraction. Our skilled team will assess your symptoms, take necessary X-rays, and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your oral health.

Take the Next Step Toward a Healthy Smile

Don’t ignore the warning signs of a potential root canal. At My WOW Dental, we’re dedicated to providing gentle, effective care to address your dental concerns and keep your smile strong. Contact us today to book your appointment.

By Admin May 9, 2025
Switching dentists can be a hard decision, but patients need to make a change if they notice things aren’t working out with the current practice. Knowing when to make the move can be hard, but there are some tips you can follow to help you find your new dental office or dental clinic in the ... Read more
May 9, 2025
A bright, white smile can be a real confidence booster—but with so many whitening products and treatments out there, many patients ask us the same important question: “Does teeth whitening damage my enamel?” At WOW Dental, we want to set the record straight and help you make informed, safe choices when it comes to enhancing your smile.
May 9, 2025
When it comes to your child’s dental health, prevention and early intervention are key. At WOW Dental, we believe in giving every child the best start possible—not just for a beautiful smile, but for a healthy, functional bite that supports lifelong oral health. One of the most impactful ways to do this is through early orthodontic screening.
By Admin May 9, 2025
Pediatric dentistry focuses on dealing with the oral health of children from birth through adolescence. Pediatric dentists are skilled at interacting with patients of all ages, and children specifically making it comfortable and easy for both the parents and kids. At Wow Dental, we always ensure our patients feel relaxed and welcome and strive to ... Read more
April 25, 2025
Mouthwash is often seen as the finishing touch to a well-rounded oral hygiene routine—but not all mouthwashes are created equal. From fighting bad breath to helping prevent cavities and gum disease, the right mouthwash can make a big difference in your dental health. At WOW Dental, we want to help you make informed decisions about your oral care, starting with what you swish daily.
April 25, 2025
When most people think about managing diabetes, they focus on blood sugar levels, diet, and medications. But did you know that your oral health plays a crucial role in managing diabetes—and vice versa? At WOW Dental, we believe in educating our patients about the powerful link between systemic health and dental care, especially when it comes to chronic conditions like diabetes.
By Dev Web April 23, 2025
In today’s digital age, technology is transforming nearly every aspect of our lives — from how we communicate to how we receive healthcare. One of the most exciting areas of innovation is modern dentistry, where state-of-the-art technology is redefining patient experiences and treatment precision. At WOW Dental in Southern Dallas, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this evolution, embracing advanced tools like intraoral scanners (IOS) and 3D printing to deliver top-quality, comfortable care.
Can You Wear Dentures While Implants Are Healing?
March 25, 2025
The journey to achieving a stable and natural-looking smile through implant-supported dentures involves several stages, one of which is the healing period after dental implant surgery. A common concern for patients at WOW Dental is whether they can continue wearing their dentures while their implants are healing. In this blog post, we will address this question, explain the healing process, and offer tips for managing this period comfortably.
Dr. Stafford
By Admin March 25, 2025
If you have inflammation in your mouth or gums it may be time to consult with a Periodontist. Gum disease is one of the most common disease patients face today. This condition must be treated promptly to avoid receding gums, or even tooth loss.  Attending regular visits to our office can help to prevent gum ... Read more
How to Help Your Child Overcome Fear of the Dentist
March 25, 2025
Let’s face it—going to the dentist can be a little scary for kids. The unfamiliar sounds, new faces, and bright lights can be overwhelming, especially during their first few visits. At WOW Dental, we understand how important it is to create a positive, stress-free experience from the start. That’s why we go out of our way to make dental care fun, friendly, and comfortable for children of all ages. If your child feels anxious about going to the dentist, you're not alone—and the good news is, there are simple, effective ways to help ease their fears and build healthy dental habits for life.
More Posts