Is A Root Canal A Dental Emergency?
A root canal is a dental procedure necessary to treat badly infected teeth. By that point, the infected tissue already reached the root structure and can cause high levels of pain and swelling.
So in short, yes: a root canal is a dental emergency. Luckily, many dentists are available to see you right away even after hours, including Dr. Ryan Wallrich from Harbor Family Dental.
Why Is a Root Canal Necessary?
Cavities are formed when bacteria start eating at the tooth’s pulp. Over time, this bacteria makes its way to the inside of the tooth, eventually causing an infection. The first signs of infection might be mild, which makes it easy to brush it off. But, when left untreated, the infection usually becomes extremely painful and causes serious complications, including permanent tooth loss.
If you are feeling high levels of pain, swelling, or notice the tooth might be loose, then you most likely need to seek emergency dental services to get a root canal as soon as possible. This will help potentially save the tooth altogether.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
A root canal is a much simpler procedure than you might think. First, your mouth will be numbed to ensure you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the treatment, and the dentist will use a drill to remove all the damaged tissue from the tooth.
Because the tissue is removed, the root canal procedure leaves a hole inside the tooth, which is then filled with a special material to replace the pulp, and sealed with a dental filling to restore the tooth strength and function.
While root canals can sound scary, they usually do not take a lot of time. Moreover, getting a root canal means you are free from the pain and discomfort of the infection and prevents serious complications!
What Are the Signs You Might Need a Root Canal?
With regular dental appointments, you can stay on top of your oral hygiene and lower your risk of tooth infections tremendously. However, in general, you should be looking for the following signs to know you are in need of a dentist check-up soon:
Sings of a cavity, dark spots on your teeth;
Sensitivity to heat and cold;
Pain when you chew or apply pressure to your tooth;
Abscesses forming right above the tooth;
Pain and swelling;
In some cases, a tooth infection can even cause a fever.
Harbor Family Dental Is Here to Help
If you’re dealing with signs of a tooth infection that may require a root canal, don’t wait until the regular working hours. Harbor Family Dental offers emergency dental services and Dr. Ryan Wallrich is available for same-day, after-hours, and even weekend appointments should you need it. Call us at (619) 786-2939.
For a regular appointment, you can schedule your visit online here.