7 Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Published: June 1, 2026 | By Nu Shine Dental Team

1. Persistent Tooth Pain

Constant or recurring pain deep in your tooth, especially when chewing or applying pressure, is a common indicator. The pain may radiate to your jaw, ear, or face.

2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

If you feel sharp pain when drinking hot coffee or cold ice cream that lingers long after, the nerves and blood vessels in your tooth may be infected or damaged.

3. Swollen Gums

Swelling, tenderness, or a small pimple-like bump on your gums near the painful tooth can indicate an abscess caused by infection deep within the tooth.

4. Tooth Discoloration

A tooth that turns dark, grey, or yellow could mean the nerve tissue is dying or has died, often due to trauma or decay reaching the pulp.

5. Prolonged Sensitivity After Dental Work

While some sensitivity after fillings is normal, persistent or worsening pain weeks later may indicate the nerve has been affected.

6. Loose Tooth

An infected tooth may feel loose because the bone supporting it has softened due to the infection spreading beyond the root tip.

7. Pain When Eating or Touching the Tooth

If even a light touch or chewing causes significant pain, the nerve tissue is likely inflamed or infected. This is a strong sign you need to see your dentist immediately.