When you take bite of mint chocolate chip ice cream or sip a steaming hot cup of coffee, what happens? Do you enjoy your treat without any problems, or do you experience pain? If one of your teeth hurts when it comes into contact with hot and cold items, it might be time for you to visit your local dentist for a root canal in Allentown.

Why Is Your Tooth Sensitive?

Normally, your teeth become sensitive because the enamel layer is thinner than it should be. That might happen because you eat too many acidic foods or because you’re a little too vigorous when you brush. However, that type of sensitivity occurs across multiple teeth.

When only one tooth is sensitive to hot and cold items, this indicates that there is an infection in your tooth’s pulp. That is in the middle of your tooth, underneath the enamel and the dentin. The infection might have come about because of poor oral health habits, but other issues may be to blame. For example, if your tooth was injured, an infection could have easily wormed its way inside.

Regardless of the reason behind the damage, your tooth’s vulnerable condition can affect the tiny nerve inside it. It’s this little nerve that is sending pain signals to your brain when you eat hot or cold foods and beverages.

How a Root Canal Can Help

When you visit your dentist in Allentown, your dental care provider will discuss your symptoms with you and possibly recommend that you undergo a root canal. This procedure is usually the best way to save a badly damaged tooth.

During your root canal therapy treatment, your dentist will drill a tiny hole in your tooth and then use dental files to clear out the damaged pulp. He or she will also remove the tiny nerve in your tooth that is causing it to be sensitive to temperature changes. After the tooth is cleaned out, a crown will be placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage.

Root canal therapy might sound a little scary, but there is no reason to be afraid of this procedure. Your dentist will make sure you are as comfortable and relaxed as possible while you’re getting your tooth fixed.

Other Signs You Need a Root Canal

Tooth sensitivity is a major indicator that you may need a root canal. However, there are some other signs that could mean you would benefit from this treatment.

• There is a small, pimple-like bump on your gums.
• Your gums are swollen and tender.
• One of your teeth is much darker than the ones around it.
• You experience serious pain when you put pressure on the tooth.

If one of your teeth is sensitive to heat and cold, a root canal in Allentown may be able to relieve your pain. Why not visit your local dentist to discuss your treatment options?

About the Author

Dr. Bradford G. Young leads the team at Bradford Young Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. He cares deeply about his patients and wants to help them deal with any pain they may be experiencing. If you’re in pain or have questions about your oral health, contact our office at 610-439-1363.