tap to content

Toothache? Relax. We can often schedule same day appointments.  Find a Location

Do you need a root canal? Here’s how to know.

Armed with X-Rays, only your dentist can determine if you need a root canal. But if you have a particular tooth that is consistently painful, especially when you bite down, you most certainly have a problem that requires attention.

How to know if an infected (abscessed) tooth may need a root canal.

  • Pain in one tooth when you bite down or chew    
  • A tooth that is sensitive to hot or cold
  • A dark or discolored tooth
  • Swollen, tender gums around the painful tooth
  • A sore on the gums that isn’t going away

When is an infected tooth an emergency?

Ouch. Infected teeth can hurt like the dickens. If the pain is severe, or if the infection has spread beyond the tooth, make an emergency appointment as soon as possible.

Call Brident to schedule. Our team is available 24/7.

(855) 834-4451

Root canals: fillings on steroids (not literally!)

Almost without exception, root canals two visits. On the first visit, we remove the diseased root and clean out the infection. Then, the tooth is closed up with a temporary filling.

After your tooth heals, you’ll come back for a second visit. This time, we’ll take X-Rays to make sure the infection is completely gone, the permanently seal the tooth.

Okay but, do root canals hurt?

In a word, no. In fact, they’re usually a huge relief, because they instantly stop the pain caused by the infection.

What’s more, during the procedure, we numb the tooth and the area around it. Just like we would for a cavity. If you do happen to feel pain during a root canal or any other procedure, let your dentist know.