Early Warning Signs You Might Need a Root Canal  

Early Signs You Need a Root Canal 

Here are the most common early warning signs and what they mean. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s wise to book a check-up as soon as possible. 

-> Persistent or Throbbing Tooth Pain  

When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, you may experience ongoing pain that doesn’t go away. The pain can be: 

✓ A dull ache or deep discomfort 

✓ A sharp, stabbing sensation 

✓ A throbbing or radiating pain extending to the jaw, ear or face 

This is one of the most frequently reported signs you need root canal therapy. 

-> Sensitivity to Hot, Cold or Pressure 

If your tooth reacts painfully to hot drinks, cold foods, or even a gentle bite , and the sensitivity lingers for several minutes, the nerve may be compromised. Intense temperature sensitivity, especially when it lasts after the stimulus is removed, is a red flag. Similarly, pressure, such as when chewing, can trigger pain if the inner pulp or surrounding tissues are inflamed.  

-> Swollen or Tender Gums; Abscess or Pimple on the Gums 

Infections inside a tooth can spread to the gum and bone around the root tip. Early signs include: 

✓ Gum swelling or redness around a specific tooth 

✓ Tenderness to touch or chewing 

✓ A small bump or pimple-like abscess on the gum surface that may drain pus or leak fluid 

✓Bad taste or persistent bad breath

These signs often suggest pulp death and a spreading infection — a clear call for root canal or urgent treatment.  

-> Tooth Discolouration or Darkening 

When the nerve dies or internal tissue decays, the tooth may turn grey, dark yellow, or even brown. This internal discolouration is often more serious than surface stains from food or drink, because it indicates damage to the tooth’s inner structures.  

Often, discolouration appears before pain or swelling, making it an important early warning sign, especially for front teeth that are more visually prominent. 

-> Cracked, Fractured or Traumatised Tooth 

Teeth that have been chipped, cracked (even slightly), or traumatised — for example, by injury, grinding, or biting hard objects — may have compromised pulp protection. Bacteria can enter through cracks and begin infecting the inner tissue. Even if there’s no immediate pain, this risk can develop over time.  

Such damage predisposes the tooth to infection and often necessitates root canal treatment to prevent more severe complications.