When Is an Emergency Root Canal Necessary?

When Is an Emergency Root Canal Necessary?

When people think of “emergency dentistry” a root canal is not usually the first thing that comes to mind.

However, there are many cases where root canal treatment does qualify as a dental emergency. In those cases, you want to book an emergency treatment as soon as possible.

Let’s take a look at when that might be the case.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal is a dental procedure that is used to save a tooth that has become badly infected. In most cases, a filling is sufficient for external tooth decay. However, when the infection has gotten inside the tooth, a filling is not enough. A root canal is the only way to take care of the problem, outside of completely removing the tooth.

Your dentist will drill a hole in the tooth, which allows them to remove the infected pulp and nerve. They will then thoroughly clean the tooth before sealing it. This procedure prevents the infection from spreading throughout your mouth and keeps abscesses from forming in your gums, teeth, or jaw.

When is an Emergency Root Canal Necessary?

Occasionally, complications of the oral infection arise to the point where you cannot bear it and surgery cannot wait. Typically, this means you’re experiencing intense pain that affects not just the tooth in question, but radiates over a larger area of your mouth.

You may have difficulty eating or your tooth may be hypersensitive to touch. You may even see a small red bump near the area, which is a sign that an abscess may be forming.

If you’re dealing with any combination of these symptoms, you should seek an emergency root canal procedure. Don’t put it off!

Signs That You May Need a Root Canal Treatment

There is only one sure way to know if you need root canal treatment and that is visiting your dentist for an examination. However, there are several signs that you can be on the lookout for, these include:

·       Intense pain (not only tooth but larger area)

·       Swelling in gums

·       Sensitivity to heat or cold

·       Difficulty eating

·       The tooth is hypersensitive to touch

·       Tooth fracture

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important that you see your dentist as soon as possible for an exam and treatment. The infected area can cause serious health problems down the line if not addressed. 

Contact Northland Village Dental Centre in NW Calgary

At Northland Village Dental Centre, we provide comprehensive dental care services, which include root canal and emergency dentistry services in NW Calgary. We care about your oral health and want to ensure you get the best care possible.

If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms that may indicate you need a root canal procedure, please give us a call and book an emergency appointment. We will get you in as soon as possible.