What are the signs that a tooth needs a root canal?

A tooth that needs a root canal often gives clear signals. The best known is a persistent, sometimes throbbing toothache that can wake you at night. Pain when chewing or when the tooth is simply touched is also a warning.

Another sign is lingering sensitivity to hot and cold that stays after the stimulus is gone. A healthy tooth reacts briefly, but an inflamed nerve keeps tingling or aching. Sometimes the tooth turns greyish, a hint that the nerve has died.

If everything points to an abscess, you may see swollen, tender gum, a small pimple next to the tooth, a bad taste or a swollen cheek. An abscess is an infection that must always be treated and does not clear on its own. With a rapidly growing facial swelling, fever or trouble swallowing, go straight to hospital emergency care.

Recognise one or more of these signs? Do not wait too long, because acting early raises the chance of saving the tooth. Book an examination at the Dr. Imad Al Morabit Dental Clinic in Nador on 0536 33 22 30 or WhatsApp +212 677 677 707. Sending a photo helps us assess the situation better.