“How does a dentist know you need a root canal?”

Symptoms, depth of decay, and/or signs of infection

A diagnosis is made of a tooth needing a root canal by: X-ray, exam, vitality testing, percussion testing, palpation testing.

We have to take proper history regarding pain or swelling. Clinically and radiographically, a dentist can tell what is going on in the tooth. There are special diagnostic tests for pulp vitality. These are diagnostic tests which tell us about the tooth's life, meaning either if the tooth is already dead or dying. Proper diagnosis about RCT involves patient history, clinical exam and X-ray and diagnostic pulp vitality tools. You can see sometimes on the X-ray radiolucency/darkness at the apex/root of the tooth. Always discuss with your dentist about it. Don't you worry. It's a very simple procedure. If tooth needs RCT, don't hesitate.

By doing some tests on your teeth.