A root canal saves a tooth that would otherwise have to be removed. Modern single-sitting treatment is virtually painless, the real pain comes from waiting too long. Watch for these five signs.
1. Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
A twinge that fades in a second is normal. Pain that lingers for many seconds or minutes after you finish a hot chai or cold water often means the nerve is inflamed.
2. Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
Sharp pain on biting down can signal infection at the root tip.
3. A pimple on the gum
A small recurring bump on the gum that oozes is a draining abscess, a clear sign of infection that needs prompt attention.
4. Darkening of the tooth
A single tooth going grey or dark often means the nerve inside has died.
5. Swelling of the gum or face
Swelling means the infection is spreading. This is urgent, do not wait it out with painkillers.