Have you been ignoring a problem tooth, hoping that pain or sensitivity will eventually just go away? The symptoms may mean that you need a root canal. Root canal therapy offered by your Findlay, OH, dentist, Dr. Krystal DeClerck of DeClerck Family Dental, can end your pain and save your tooth.

Pain is an unmistakable sign of a tooth issue

Root canals eliminate pain by removing infected or inflamed pulp and replacing it with a sterile, inert filling. Pulp, a collection of nerves, tissue and blood vessels, played a crucial role in the formation of your tooth but isn't quite as important now. In fact, your tooth won't feel any different once it's removed.

Do you think you don't have to worry about a root canal because you're not in severe or constant pain? Although throbbing pain can certainly be a sign that you need a root canal, it's not unusual for pain to be mild at first.

Did your pain suddenly go away? Once the nerves in the pulp die, you'll no longer feel anything, although you're tooth will still be inflamed or infected. It's important to see your Findlay, OH, dentist if your tooth has stopped hurting despite weeks or months of pain.

Sensitivity may be a problem if you need a root canal

It's not unusual for teeth to become much more sensitive when inflamed or infected. If your tooth hurts or pain increases after eating hot, cold, or sugary foods or beverages, it's time to schedule a dental visit.

Obvious changes to your teeth and gums can occur

In some cases, your tooth may darken if you need a root canal. Although the inflammation or infection may be inside your tooth, it can affect your gum. A red, swollen, painful gum can be another sign of a problem.

Your tooth makes you sick

Bacterial infections called abscesses can make you feel terrible. An abscess can cause a fever, swollen lymph glands, pus around your tooth, a pimple-like bump on the gum, facial swelling, and severe, throbbing pain. If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, call Dr. DrClerck right away. Prompt treatment will stop the infection from spreading to your heart, brain, or other parts of your body.

Don't put off seeing the dentist a minute longer! Call your Findlay, OH, dentist, Dr. DeClerck of DeClerck Family Dental, at (419) 422-8972 to schedule an appointment.