Understanding Root Canal Treatments and Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies require immediate attention, and your dentist may recommend that you undergo root canal treatment, depending on your situation. The procedure repairs teeth with extensive root decay by removing the infected pulp, disinfecting individual teeth, then sealing them with a filling material. But when exactly should someone undergo a root canal treatment? And what is the procedure like?

This article will orient you on root canal treatment as one of the solutions to address pressing dental emergencies. Take this as an opportunity to prepare yourself for such an emergency by knowing how exactly to address it effectively.

Common Dental Emergencies That Need Root Canal Treatment

Take note of the following dental emergencies that may have your dentist recommend root canal treatment:

1) A chipped tooth with existing internal decay: A physical collision, like bumping your head against a tree or falling off a ladder, can constitute a dental emergency. These accidents can damage individual teeth, which means they may need to be pulled out. However, after further examination, your dentist may recommend a root canal if they can see a way to save the tooth instead. In doing so, you can still maintain your tooth’s natural structure and use it like normal.

2) Abscess build-up or internal infection: You may not be taking care of your dental hygiene well, and this causes an abscess build-up, which is a puss-like crater pulsating in your gums. You may also be experiencing severe headaches. Abscess build-up is an indicator of internal infection that needs immediate dental attention.

3) A sensitive tooth with tooth decay: You may have a tooth sensitive to hot or cold food, forcing you to chew where it doesn’t hurt. Your tooth may also be affected by decay, which has created an opening for plaque to infect the pulp. You need to seek immediate attention for a potential root canal to address this.

The Step-by-Step Root Canal Treatment

Now that you know what dental emergencies may need a root canal, read the following steps of the treatment to understand what it entails:

1) Application of anesthesia: Your emergency dentist wants to minimize any feeling of pain or discomfort during the root canal treatment. Anesthesia is usually applied topically to the affected area, then injected. This numbing effect will last for around one to three hours, depending on the volume of anesthesia given.

2) Drilling an access hole into the damaged tooth: Your emergency dentist will need to drill an access hole to get to the internal part easily. You may hear some noises during this part of the treatment, but don’t worry because anesthesia ensures you don’t feel it.

3) Removing the pulp chamber and deep cleaning: Inside your tooth, the emergency dentist needs to remove the pulp, the soft, connective tissues with nerve endings and blood vessels. It allows the dentist to clean everything effectively and get rid of the infection.

4) Filling up the access hole: Your emergency dentist will now fill up the access hole with a special dental sealant paste to cover up the tooth and prevent further infection. And your tooth will not look only good on the outside but also be healthy and strong on the inside.

5) Post-root canal treatment: Your emergency dentist may want to see your recovered tooth’s development and assess whether there are other dental problems to fix. Be sure to take note of them and take care of your oral health by brushing and flossing regularly.

Conclusion

Root canal treatments are one of the most effective emergency dental solutions to save a damaged tooth. Take note of all the previously mentioned indications and the procedure to stay well-informed and ready for any dental emergency.

Are you in need of root canal treatment and other dental emergency services in Edmonton? Consult with us today at 24/7 Emergency Dental Clinic, your dedicated team of experienced and professional dentists. Take note of our services today so that you know what to do in case of a dental emergency.