Experiencing dental discomfort can be confusing. Sometimes it’s just a fleeting sensitivity, other times it might be a sign that something serious is going on beneath the surface. An expert in this area is an endodontist, a dental specialist who focuses on the innermost parts of the tooth.
Recognizing when to see an endodontist in Murfreesboro, TN can save your tooth, and spare you more complex pain and treatments down the road.
What is an Endodontist in Murfreesboro, TN?
While all dentists receive training in general oral care, an endodontist undergoes additional education focused on diagnosing and treating problems inside the tooth — particularly the pulp, root canals, and surrounding tissues.
Common procedures performed by endodontists include:
- Root canal therapy — removing damaged or infected pulp, sealing the tooth to prevent re-infection.
- Endodontic retreatment — repeating or repairing a prior root canal that didn’t heal properly.
- Endodontic surgery — especially when a standard root canal doesn’t reach or completely heal infection near the root tip.
Because they specialize in root/pulp problems, endodontists are skilled at saving natural teeth — often even when serious damage or infection is present.
Common Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If your teeth or gums are giving you trouble, it may be time to see an endodontist. Below are some of the most frequent signs that indicate the inner workings of a tooth may be compromised.
Persistent, Severe, or Recurring Tooth Pain
If you have a tooth that hurts constantly or the pain comes and goes, especially when biting or chewing, that’s often one of the strongest indicators of a deeper issue. Sometimes the pain is sharp, throbbing, or radiates to your jaw or cheek. This type of discomfort may signal that the pulp (which contains nerve tissue) is inflamed or infected.
Even if pain seems mild or comes and goes, it’s risky to “wait it out” because tooth health problems can progress internally before they become obvious.
Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Pressure
Do you wince when drinking coffee, tea, or something cold — or feel discomfort when biting down? Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold, or pain when applying pressure, can indicate that the inner pulp or root tissues are irritated.
While not every instance of sensitivity means you need an endodontist in Murfreesboro, TN, it’s worth investigating, especially if the sensitivity lingers or worsens over time.
Swelling, Gum Bumps, or Other Signs of Infection
Sometimes the problem isn’t just inside the tooth, it affects the surrounding gums or even bone. Swollen gums, tenderness, bumps or “pimples” on the gums — these can be warning signs of a dental abscess or root infection.
Infections like that can spread beyond the tooth, so catching them early is important. An endodontist can evaluate and treat these issues before they worsen.
Tooth Damage, Cracks, or Previous Dental Work
A crack or chip in a tooth, even if it doesn’t hurt now, can allow bacteria to enter the pulp chamber, leading to infection.
Additionally, teeth that have undergone multiple fillings, crowns, or other dental work may be more susceptible to internal decay or nerve damage over time. And if you’ve had a root canal before and pain returns, that might indicate a failed treatment — and a need for retreatment by an endodontist.
Discoloration or Darkening of a Tooth
Sometimes, damage inside a tooth causes changes you can actually see. A tooth that becomes discolored — darker or grayer than surrounding teeth — might be a sign that the internal pulp is dying or already dead.
Even if there’s no pain, discoloration should prompt an evaluation; early intervention can often save the tooth before infection spreads.
How Fitzgerald Dentistry Can Help You Save Your Smile
If you suspect you might need an endodontist in Murfreesboro, TN, Fitzgerald Dentistry is well equipped to help. Our services include root canal therapy, restorative dentistry, and emergency dental care for patients who need immediate attention.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, sensitivity, or any of the warning signs mentioned above, reach out to us at Fitzgerald Dentistry to schedule an evaluation.