Dental pain can be severe and at times debilitating. This intense pain can be made worse when the patient cannot localize the pain, or even know if it is from a tooth.
Thorough diagnostic testing, a discussion of the history of the symptoms, and both traditional (2D) and 3D imaging will help in determining the source and cause of the pain. The pain may not even end up being a root canal issue. Sometimes jaw pain can be a gum (periodontal) abscess, TMJ related, a neurological issue, or even cardiac in origin.
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a form of 3D imaging that has the benefits of having drastically reduced radiation exposure when compared to medical CT scans or chest x-rays, and actually has higher resolution to see the tooth and surrounding structures in much greater detail to aid in diagnosing. Seeing the tooth and area in three dimensions allows for visualization of structures that can be hidden in 2D imaging. CBCT imaging aids in identifying calcified canals, untreated canals, cracks, abscesses, and more. Cone Beam CT imaging has been one of the most valuable advancements in endodontics.
Dental pain should not be ignored. It is important to see your dentist, or be referred to a specialist. Determining the source and etiology of your pain is the first step in treatment.