Signs You Might Need a Root Canal (And What Happens Next)
By Dr. Arvind Sahu, MDS (Prosthodontics)
Common warning signs
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, a dull ache that doesn't go away, tenderness when chewing, or swelling near a tooth can all point to an issue with the tooth's inner pulp. None of these on their own confirm you need a root canal — only an exam and X-ray can do that — but they're worth getting checked rather than waiting out.
Why dentists try to save the tooth
A root canal removes the infected or inflamed pulp inside a tooth and seals the space, which relieves the pain and lets you keep your natural tooth instead of having it extracted. Keeping the natural tooth generally means better long-term chewing function and less shifting of neighbouring teeth.
What the appointment involves
After confirming the diagnosis with an X-ray, the tooth is numbed, the infected pulp is cleaned out, and the canal is shaped and sealed. Many cases are completed in one visit; more complex ones may need two. A crown is often recommended afterward, especially on back teeth, since the tooth becomes more brittle once the pulp is gone.
When to get it checked
Tooth pain rarely gets better on its own. If something feels off, it's worth booking an exam early — smaller problems are generally easier and less involved to treat than ones left to progress.
