30 May 2023
Resource Center
No one wants to hear that they need a root canal, but sometimes they are necessary. If you have a tooth that is severely decaying or infected, a root canal may be the only way to save it. Root canals are also sometimes necessary if you have had an injury to a tooth.
Emergency root canals are necessary when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to decay, injury, or trauma. During the procedure, the damaged pulp is removed, the root canal is cleaned and disinfected, and the area is filled with a sealant. The tooth is then capped with a crown or a filling to protect it from further damage. Emergency root canals are performed to prevent the spread of infection, relieve pain, and save the tooth from further damage. It is important to seek treatment for emergency root canals as soon as possible to avoid further complications.
Be Prepared
Root canals are simple procedures that can be done in one or two visits to the dentist. They are often the only alternative to save a tooth when a simple filling alone isn’t enough to repair a tooth and relieve the patient’s pain. The only real alternative to getting a root canal is an extraction. An extraction is usually a cheaper alternative to taking care of a bad tooth and is sometimes the only option if a root canal isn't a valid option.
If your dentist has recommended you get a root canal or if you think you might need one, it’s important you know what to expect. Knowing about root canals can help you prepare in advance and alleviate any fear you may have regarding your upcoming procedure.
What to Expect if You Are Having an Emergency Root Canal
After determining whether a root canal is necessary via x-rays, the dentist will want to make sure they are working on the correct tooth. This is done by testing the cold sensitivity of the tooth. A blast of cold air will be shot onto the tooth to ensure sensitivity. This is arguably the worst part of the whole procedure. When the patient reacts, this is an indication that this is the tooth that is feeling discomfort and in need of a root canal.
Outside of this, there is little discomfort, and this is especially true once the area is fully numbed. Root canals are usually not painful. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but you should not feel any pain. If you do feel pain, tell the dentist. The worst pain of an emergency root canal occurs during the time leading up to your appointment before you have the procedure. The onset of pain relief typically begins during the procedure and is much more noticeable once the procedure is complete.
Numbing the Area
Once the dentist is sure of the tooth that he/she will be working on, they will first numb the area around the tooth. This process consists of applying numbing paste to your gum and then injecting anesthetizing medicine into the affected area. It may take up to 15 minutes or longer for the medicine to completely numb your gum and your jaw on one side of your face. This medicine won’t wear off completely until after your appointment is long over. Following the procedure, you’ll gradually regain feeling in your face and mouth.
Your dentist may give you additional medicine before the procedure begins if you are not numb enough to only feel slight pressure and no pain. Tell your dentist your level of feeling to ensure you are numb enough.
The Root Canal
Once the area is good and numb, your mouth will be open for quite a while. A stretchy cover will be placed over your open mouth, and a dental dam will likely be used to help prop your mouth open. When everything is situated and prepped, the dentist will use a drill to remove the damaged tissue. After removing all damaged tissue, the dentist will then clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth.
If the root canal is done in one visit, the dentist will then fill the cavity with a special material. If the root canal is done in two visits, the dentist will put a temporary filling in the tooth. The permanent filling will be done at the second visit. If necessary, medicine will be put in the cavity to heal any lingering infection until the second visit.
After an Emergency Root Canal Procedure
Taking care of your tooth after you get a root canal is important. You should brush and floss regularly and see the dentist for regular checkups. After your appointment, your dentist will give you instructions for what to do during the days following a root canal and if you will need to return for a second appointment to finish the procedure.
Do I Need a Crown After My Emergency Root Canal?
Depending on the individual case, a patient may need a crown after a root canal to protect the tooth and prevent further damage. A dentist can determine if a crown is necessary after evaluating the patient's dental health.
In most cases, a crown will not be necessary after a root canal. However, if a large amount of the tooth was destroyed due to decay or trauma, your dentist may recommend a crown to restore the tooth's strength and improve its appearance.
Getting a crown after a root canal is a common procedure. The crown will protect the tooth from further damage and help restore the tooth’s normal functioning and appearance. During the procedure, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth to create a custom-made crown that fits your tooth. The dentist will then place the crown on the tooth and secure it with dental cement. After the crown is placed, the dentist may recommend that you have follow-up visits to make sure the crown is properly fitting and functioning, but there shouldn’t be any maintenance to the tooth after the permanent crown is in place.
Go in with Confidence to Emergency Dental Service
If you need an emergency root canal, you can go in confidently when you know what to expect. Modern technology has also made these procedures far less invasive and time-consuming. If your dentist recommends an emergency root canal, the sooner you get the procedure done, the less likely the problem will get worse and cause more pain. Contact Emergency Dental Service to schedule an appointment with a local dentist within 24 hours or call 1-888-350-1340.
