You may need a root canal if you experience the following symptoms. These signify nerve or “pulp” damage:

• Severe pain when pressure is applied to the tooth
• Pain on biting
• Severe cold tenderness
• Severe pain relieved by room temperature water
• Darkening of the tooth
• A draining fistula, bubble, or abscess is present in the gums, often recurring
• Sensitivity to hot or cold persists long after contact is made
• Throbbing pain at night
• Pain on pressing the gums over the tooth

Overall, root canals are a fairly common procedure, and most take just one visit to the dentist. You may feel nervous about getting it done, but putting one off when you need the procedure can lead to even worse decay and infection. To save as much of your natural tooth as possible, and protect your oral and general health, call (818) 508–7272 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kashani to see if you need a root canal, and learn more about the procedure.