Tooth pain is unsettling, but it doesn't automatically mean you need a root canal. That said, there are specific signs worth taking seriously rather than waiting out.
1. Persistent or severe tooth pain
Pain that lingers, especially when biting down or applying pressure, can signal that the inflammation or infection has reached the inner pulp of the tooth.
2. Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
A quick zing from ice water is normal. Pain that lingers for a long time after the hot or cold is gone is a different story, and worth getting checked.
3. Swelling or tenderness in the gums
Swelling near a specific tooth, or a small bump on the gum (sometimes called a "gum boil"), can be a sign of infection at the root.
4. Darkening of the tooth
A tooth that's visibly darker than the ones around it can indicate the nerve inside has been damaged.
5. Pain that suddenly stops
This one surprises people — sudden pain relief can actually mean the nerve has died, not that the problem resolved on its own. It's still worth an exam even if it "feels better."
What to do next
None of these symptoms are a certain diagnosis on their own — only an exam and, often, an X-ray can confirm whether a root canal is actually needed. If you're noticing any of these, it's better to get looked at sooner than later.