Experiencing intense toothache, observing pus discharge from a tooth, noticing tooth discoloration, or grappling with a severely damaged tooth? In such cases, the need for an emergency root canal may arise. An emergency root canal is a dental intervention designed to salvage and mend an infected tooth. This procedure entails the extraction of the infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth, followed by a comprehensive cleansing and disinfection of the interior, culminating in the filling and sealing of the tooth. Opting for a root canal can effectively alleviate the discomfort, swelling, and heightened sensitivity often associated with a compromised and infected tooth.
How do I know if I need an emergency root canal?
If you notice intense toothache, discomfort while chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot/cold, tooth discoloration, or gum tenderness/swelling around your tooth, these are signs that your tooth might need an emergency root canal treatment. You can address your pain with a same-day emergency root canal procedure.
When harmful bacteria infect the inside of your tooth, leading to an abscess or infection, a root canal becomes necessary. These infections often stem from untreated cavities. Look out for the following indications that you might require a root canal:
- Persistent Tooth Pain: If you experience deep, continuous tooth pain that might spread to other teeth, your face, or jaw, it’s wise to consult a dentist. They can determine if you need a root canal, especially if you feel pain while eating or touching the tooth.
- Heightened Sensitivity: If your tooth becomes overly sensitive to hot or cold foods/drinks and this sensitivity comes with lasting pain, it could be a sign that a root canal is in order.
- Swollen Gums and Jaw: Infections are often accompanied by swollen and tender gums and surrounding areas. If you notice a pimple or boil on your gums with pus draining from it, it’s an indication of infection and may lead to an unpleasant taste or odor.
- Tooth Discoloration: A compromised tooth pulp can cause your tooth to appear darker due to blood supply issues.
- Chipped or Cracked Tooth: Any trauma or injury to your tooth might allow bacteria to reach the inner pulp, leading to an infection.
- Loose Tooth: An infected tooth can weaken the supporting bone, causing your tooth to feel loose.
Are emergency root canals covered by dental insurance?
If you have a PPO or DHMO dental insurance plan with available benefits, there’s a possibility that some of the expenses from an emergency visit could be covered. While you may still have to contribute towards the cost of the root canal therapy, your dental insurance provider might take care of 50% of the expenses linked to the dental crown needed to restore your affected tooth. To confirm the details, it’s best to reach out to your dental insurance provider.
Is an emergency root canal painful?
When anesthesia is administered, undergoing a root canal procedure usually doesn’t involve more pain than a standard dental treatment such as getting a filling or having a wisdom tooth extracted. Nevertheless, it’s usual to feel some soreness or numbness in the treated area after the root canal, which might lead to minor discomfort for a few days.
What is an emergency root canal?
The procedure for an emergency root canal is the same as a regular root canal. Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy) is a dental procedure aimed at treating infected or damaged teeth. The procedure entails the removal of the diseased pulp or tissue from the tooth, followed by the encapsulation of the area to prevent future bacterial entry. To guarantee the tooth’s stability and protection, a filling or crown is applied. A root canal is an effective emergency dental procedure for preserving a molar that has been compromised.
What to expect during a root canal procedure?
A root canal procedure, a secure process carried out by a root canal dentist or an endodontist, comprises these six stages:
- Dental X-rays: Prior to the root canal procedure, our dental assistant will take digital x-rays to examine your tooth’s condition and assess the extent of the infection.
- Application of Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the infected area. Additional sedation might be used if you feel anxious about the treatment.
- Opening the Canal: A small hole is delicately drilled through the tooth’s enamel to expose the infected pulp, relieving pressure and pain.
- Cleaning the Infected Area: The infected nerve tissue and pulp are meticulously removed from the tooth. Subsequently, the root canal is thoroughly cleaned.
- Temporary Filling and Sealing: The empty root canal is temporarily filled and sealed to prevent infection or abscess formation. A temporary restoration, and sutures if needed, will be applied to shield the tooth while it heals. For final sealing, a permanent crown will be created and placed during your next visit.
- Permanent Filling and Sealing: During your follow-up appointment, a permanent crown will be affixed to the treated tooth, ensuring long-term protection.
How long does an emergency root canal take?
The length of a root canal treatment is contingent upon the severity of the case. The procedure progresses until the dentist effectively eliminates the infected tooth pulp. A simple root canal typically spans around 30 to 60 minutes. However, in more severe cases, the procedure might extend to up to 2 hours.
Can I drive myself to the emergency root canal appointment?
Because root canal procedures usually involve local anesthesia to numb the tooth and reduce pain or discomfort, it’s generally safe for you to drive yourself home after the treatment. However, if you are given sedation medication or general anesthesia during the procedure, it’s recommended to organize transportation, as the effects of these medications might compromise your ability to drive safely.
Can I schedule an emergency root canal appointment after hours or on weekends?
Contact the dental office to schedule an appointment.
Is it necessary to have a follow-up appointment after an emergency root canal?
Following your root canal, it’s crucial to set up a follow-up visit with your dentist. Root canal procedures are intricate, and the tooth’s healing process requires time. Throughout this healing phase, the tooth remains sensitive and susceptible. Scheduling a follow-up appointment helps confirm proper healing and identifies any potential complications after the procedure.