Signs you might need a root canal

When the nerve is the problem

Root canal treatment is needed when the soft tissue inside the tooth — the pulp, which contains the nerve — becomes inflamed or infected. That usually follows deep decay, a crack, a very large filling, or a knock to the tooth.

Common signs to watch for

The things worth noticing: sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the trigger has gone; pain when biting or under pressure; a deep, persistent ache or throbbing; a tooth that is darkening compared with its neighbours; tenderness or swelling in the gum; or a small 'pimple' on the gum that may come and go. A lasting bad taste can be a sign too.

Sometimes there are no symptoms at all

A nerve can die quietly, with little or no pain, and the problem is only spotted on a routine X-ray. Absence of pain doesn't always mean absence of a problem, which is one reason regular check-ups matter.

What isn't necessarily a root canal

A brief twinge of cold sensitivity that passes quickly is often nothing to worry about, and plenty of aches have simpler causes. The aim here isn't to alarm you — it's to help you recognise when something is worth getting looked at.

Why it's worth acting early

Caught early, treatment is usually simpler and the outlook for saving the tooth is better. Left too long, infection can spread and the options narrow. If in doubt, it is always worth an assessment.

Getting it checked

Only a proper assessment — with a 3D CBCT scan where it helps — can confirm whether a root canal is needed. If you're worried about a tooth, I'll give you an honest view and your options.