How do I know I need a root canal?
Diagnosis of a root canal is based on signs and symptoms.
Signs include: decay to pulp and an apical lesion.
Symptoms are very subjective and depend on the patient.
Reversible pulpitis is transient sensitivity to cold. It can progress to irreversible pulpitis which include prolonged sensitivity to cold and to hot. This can progress to sensitivity to biting. Once you have irreversible pulpitis the nerve will ultimately become neurotic. NO dentist at any given time can tell you if your nerve is “healthy.” Absence of symptoms on any given time does not mean the nerve is “ok.” Just because a tooth with decay does not hurt doesn’t not mean the nerve is fine. There are channels in the dentin that connect to the nerve. We can place liners, sedatives to protect the nerve but sometimes the nerve will get sensitive and will need a root canal
Reversible pulpitis is transient sensitivity to cold. It can progress to irreversible pulpitis which include prolonged sensitivity to cold and to hot. This can progress to sensitivity to biting. Once you have irreversible pulpitis the nerve will ultimately become neurotic. NO dentist at any given time can tell you if your nerve is “healthy.” Absence of symptoms on any given time does not mean the nerve is “ok.” Just because a tooth with decay does not hurt doesn’t not mean the nerve is fine. There are channels in the dentin that connect to the nerve. We can place liners, sedatives to protect the nerve but sometimes the nerve will get sensitive and will need a root canal
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