Although there are numerous dental issues that a dentist can address, there are more complicated cases that require the expertise of an endodontist. Typically, these dental practitioners specialize in resolving difficult-to-treat dental issues affecting oral health. If you suffer from problems like severe tooth decay, cavities, and missing, chipped teeth, among other oral imperfections, Midtown board certified endodontist can provide long-lasting relief.
However, most people confuse an endodontist with a dentist and fail to understand when they should see one. For this reason, let’s examine the six telltale signs that indicate you should see an endodontist soon.
1. Significantly damaged or decayed tooth
While your dentist can address some cases of a decayed tooth, they may recommend you to see an endodontist when your tooth is significantly broken, chipped, cracked, or decayed. An endodontist is a specialist who deals with severe conditions affecting the pup or your tooth root. Therefore, if your damage reaches deep beyond the surface of your tooth, you should instantly talk to your endodontist for treatments and restoration.
2. Persistent tooth pain
Tooth pain that doesn’t go away even after taking medications or undergoing dental treatment indicates a more complicated issue. However, endodontists can help diagnose your pain, identify your underlying problem, and provide advanced treatment options. Therefore, if your tooth is severely hurting and doesn’t seem to resolve, don’t hesitate to involve an endodontist.
3. Swelling or drainage of gums around your teeth
When you notice signs like unusual drainage or swelling around a particular tooth, it indicates that your tooth may be decaying and you need a root canal procedure. Usually, when the pulp of your tooth is infected, the condition can spread to the gums or jawbone surrounding the tooth. However, since procedures like root canals are delicate, you should choose an endodontist for their utmost expertise.
4. Intensified sensitivity to hot and cold
Although you can naturally experience a slight reaction on your teeth when you consume hot or cold substances, you should seek endodontist help if the reaction is solely from the teeth and is abnormal. Teeth sensitivity, especially when you drink or eat food items, can signify weaker enamel or infection and thus requires urgent examination. However, an endodontist can tailor a customized treatment plan for your recovery.
5. Abnormal tooth discoloration
Although consuming caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, tobacco, and wine can gradually cause teeth discoloration, you should look out for extreme discoloration since it’s uncommon. A sudden change of color in a specific tooth can result from a severe infection spreading through your teeth to the gums and jaws. The significant discoloration is a sign that you should visit an endodontist soon.
6. Potential multiple tooth loss
If you’re facing the possibility of losing one or multiple teeth or you’re a potential candidate for tooth extraction, an endodontist can save your situation. These specialists can protect severely damaged teeth that would be otherwise lost. Losing multiple teeth can be scary, so keep a professional endodontist in your closet.
Because of their expertise, skills, and experience, endodontists are your best match to address severe dental issues. Instead of waiting until your dentist refers you to an endodontist, schedule your appointment immediately if you feel any unusual signs. An endodontist will come through for your situation and salvage your smile.