When an urgent dental issue strikes, you can typically count on your emergency dentist to alleviate your pain and restore your oral health as promptly as possible. But what if you’re suffering from a severe tooth infection that requires a root canal treatment? Will your emergency dentist be able to handle the procedure, or will they need to refer you to a specialist?
When is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?
Each tooth contains a collection of connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels known as dental pulp. If a cavity goes untreated for too long, harmful bacteria could reach the pulp and infect it. An untreated tooth infection can cause significant pain, and the problem will only grow more severe the longer it goes unaddressed. If the affected tooth isn’t treated in time, it may eventually need to be extracted.
With a root canal treatment, it’s possible to remove infected dental pulp. This puts a stop to your pain and gets rid of the source of the infection. In many cases, a root canal treatment is your best option for saving an infected tooth.
Do Emergency Dentists Perform Root Canal Treatments?
The short answer is yes; all emergency dentists can perform root canal treatment. That said, some root canals are more complex than others. If a basic root canal treatment is enough to save your tooth, your emergency dentist will likely be able to handle the procedure themselves. But if your tooth needs advanced care, you may be referred to an endodontist (a dental specialist who treats issues involving the inside of the tooth).
Do You Need a Root Canal Treatment?
Only a trained dental professional will be able to determine whether root canal treatment is necessary in your case. That said, there’s a good chance that you may require this procedure if:
- There is significant pain in your tooth that has lasted for more than a few days.
- The gum tissue around a specific tooth has become swollen.
- You have a tooth that is noticeably darker than the others.
- A pimple-like bump has appeared on your gum tissue.
As soon as you notice any warning signs that your tooth may be infected, you should call your emergency dentist. The sooner you act, the sooner you can get the treatment you need to save the tooth in question and prevent the infection from spreading to the rest of your mouth.
About the Author
Dr. Arash Vahid went to the University of Michigan Ann Arbor for his dental degree, and he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency through the NYU College of Dentistry. He is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and other professional organizations. At AV Dental Associates of Jersey City, he helps patients save their infected teeth with gentle root canal treatments. If you need an emergency dentist, you can contact Dr. Vahid’s office at (201) 484-7759. Alternatively, you can use his online booking tool.