When it comes to dental pain, it’s easy to ignore it and hope it fades. But sometimes, that toothache is a sign of something more serious. If you feel discomfort, especially deep inside a tooth, you might need a root canal. At Dentisterie Montreal, many patients wait too long to seek help, unaware of the risks of ignoring early symptoms.

Root canal therapy may sound scary, but it’s a routine procedure. It can save your tooth and relieve pain. So how do you know when to call your dentist? Let’s look at the 5 warning signs you might need a root canal—and why ignoring them is risky.

1. Persistent, Severe Tooth Pain – Especially When Chewing

Tooth pain signals that something isn’t right. If you have constant pain, especially when chewing or pressing down, it may mean the pulp inside your tooth is infected or inflamed.

Look for these signs:

  • Throbbing or sharp pain that comes and goes
  • Pain that worsens with hot or cold foods
  • Pain that wakes you at night

Unlike mild sensitivity, pain that lingers or intensifies should not be ignored. At Dentisterie Montreal, we often see patients with significant pulp damage by this point. A root canal procedure may be the only way to save the tooth.

Early diagnosis can prevent abscesses and stop the infection from spreading to nearby teeth or your jawbone. If the pain doesn’t go away, it’s time to book that dental visit.

2. Tooth Discoloration – A Sign of Dying Tooth Nerves

Have you noticed a tooth turning gray or dark yellow while others look normal? This tooth discoloration can signal a problem deep inside the tooth. It may mean a dying or dead nerve.

Why does this happen?

  • Trauma or injury to the tooth, even years ago
  • Internal infection not visible externally
  • Blood vessels and nerves inside the tooth start to die

When a tooth dies, the dentin darkens, causing a noticeable color change. It’s not just cosmetic; this discoloration usually needs dental care. A root canal removes the damaged pulp, halts infection, and lets your dentist restore the tooth with a crown or veneer.

At Dentisterie Montreal, many patients overlook this sign, thinking it’s merely a stain. In reality, it could be your body warning you about a serious internal issue.

3. Prolonged Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

Everyone feels a little zing from ice cream or hot coffee. But if that sensitivity lasts long after the temperature is gone, it’s time for concern.

Signs of root canal-related sensitivity include:

  • Sensitivity that lasts over 30 seconds
  • Deep, dull pain, not just surface-level discomfort
  • One tooth reacting more strongly than others

This prolonged sensitivity often points to damaged pulp or infected nerve tissue. Heat sensitivity is particularly linked to a dying tooth nerve. If this is happening to you, visit Dentisterie Montreal for a proper evaluation.

Using tools like X-rays, vitalometric tests and thermal testing, your dentist can check if the root is compromised. If it is, a root canal treatment can relieve pain and preserve your tooth structure.

Root Canal

4. Swollen Gums or Pimples on the Gums

Swelling, tenderness, or a small bump near a tooth may mean a tooth abscess—an infection around the tooth root. This serious condition requires quick treatment.

Symptoms of an abscess include:

  • Warm or painful gum swelling
  • Pus discharge or bad taste in the mouth
  • Recurring bump on the gums
  • Swelling in the face or jaw

An abscess won’t heal on its own. Ignoring it can let the infection spread, leading to bone loss or health issues. The good news is a root canal at Dentisterie Montreal can allow the elimination of the infection and promote healing.

Untreated, an abscess can rupture, causing more pain and complications. If your gums are swollen or you see anything unusual around your teeth, it’s time to act.

5. Cracked or Chipped Tooth with Pain

Accidents happen. Whether it’s biting something hard or a sports injury, a cracked or chipped tooth can expose the inner layers, making it prone to infection and nerve damage.

When does a crack need a root canal?

  • If it reaches the pulp or root of the tooth
  • If pain or sensitivity follows the injury
  • If there’s visible swelling or discoloration

Even small cracks can lead to big problems. Bacteria can enter and infect the tooth from within. At Dentisterie Montreal, we often see patients weeks or months after an injury, unaware of an internal infection.

With timely care, including a root canal and crown placement, the tooth can often be saved and fully restored. Don’t wait for unbearable pain—any damaged tooth should be checked right away.

Conclusion: Don’t Ignore the Signs – Save Your Smile

Needing a root canal might seem intimidating, but it’s a tooth-saving, pain-relieving solution. The sooner you recognize the signs, the easier treatment and recovery will be. At Dentisterie Montreal, our team uses advanced tools and gentle techniques to keep you comfortable.

If you notice any of these warning signs—persistent pain, discoloration, sensitivity, gum swelling, or cracks—don’t wait. Your natural teeth are worth protecting, and root canal therapy might be the best way to do that.

FAQs – Root Canal Treatment at Dentisterie Montreal

  • Is a root canal painful? 

No, thanks to modern dentistry and local anesthesia, most patients say it feels no worse than getting a filling.

  • How long does a root canal take? 

Usually, a root canal at Dentisterie Montreal takes one to two visits, depending on the tooth and infection extent.

  • What if I don’t get a root canal when needed? 

The infection can spread, leading to abscesses, bone loss, or tooth loss. Early treatment can prevent complications.

  • Can a tooth need a root canal without pain? 

Yes. Some teeth may show signs like discoloration, swelling, or deep decay without pain—all needing dental evaluation.

  • How can I prevent needing a root canal? 

Keep good oral hygiene, see your dentist regularly, and address dental issues early to avoid deeper infections.