Are you experiencing a painful toothache? Severe discomfort is often a sign that a tooth needs treatment. The sooner you seek treatment, the more likely your tooth can be saved. Where should you go for an emergency root canal?
At Eagle Endodontics we specialize in saving teeth, even in emergency situations. Contact us right away and we will make plans to provide the necessary treatment to relieve your pain and restore the health of your tooth.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure named for the part of the tooth that it treats. The root canal is the inner chamber of a tooth that contains dental pulp, soft tissue made up of blood vessels and nerves. If bacteria invades the root canal through a deep cavity or a crack in the tooth and reaches the pulp, a painful infection can develop.
To treat or prevent infection, root canal treatment involves removal of the dental pulp. The tooth is cleaned out and disinfected, then filled with a replacement material that is resistant to infection. In most cases a crown is placed over the tooth to seal and protect it.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
- Severe toothache
- Tooth pain that comes and goes
- Sensitivity when exposed to cold, heat, or sugar
- Pain when chewing
- Swollen or tender gum tissue around the tooth
- Abscesses (pimple-like bumps) on the gums
- Discoloration of a tooth (a tooth that looks darker than the others)
- Cracked or broken tooth
When to Seek Treatment
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is in your best interest to see an endodontist as soon as possible. The sooner a tooth is treated, the sooner you will get relief and the greater the chances that the tooth can be saved. An infected tooth can often be completely restored as long as the damage is not too extensive. Root canal treatment allows the natural tooth and root to remain in place, often for the rest of your life.
What is Considered an Emergency?
Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if your situation is urgent enough for emergency treatment. Contact an endodontist immediately (even after hours) if:
- Your pain is severe
- Your pain does not respond to over the counter pain relievers
- You are unable to sleep due to the level of discomfort
- Your tooth is severely fractured or split
- A tooth is avulsed (knocked out)
The following situations can most likely wait until the next day, but should still be addressed as soon as possible during regular office hours:
- Pain that comes and goes
- Pain when chewing
- Sensitivity
- Discolored tooth
Contact Eagle Endodontics Today
If you’re facing a dental emergency, contact Eagle Endodontics today. During regular office hours we will see you as soon as possible. After hours please leave a message and someone will contact you shortly with further instructions. When in doubt, please feel free to contact us. The right treatment provided at the right time can significantly improve the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment
Does a root canal hurt?
Root canal treatment actually relieves pain, as the nerves are removed from the inside of the tooth. Your comfort is our top priority during the procedure. We provide a variety of anesthesia options to make the experience as relaxing as possible.
Can a tooth get reinfected after root canal treatment?
Sometimes a tooth that has already been treated with a root canal can develop a new infection. This may be due to some dental pulp being left inside the tooth due to a complex root structure. Endodontic retreatment may be necessary in this case.
Eagle Endodontics is here for you at all times, even during emergencies. We provide calm, compassionate care, in stressful situations that helps patients feel at ease. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.