An immediate visit to an emergency dentist becomes necessary when severe tooth pain or infection disrupts your comfort and overall quality of life. This dental professional provides immediate evaluation and relief, particularly when a root canal is required to preserve a damaged or infected tooth. Root canal treatment from an emergency dentist can help alleviate pain and prevent future complications to your oral health.
A root canal is typically recommended when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Deep decay, cracks, or trauma can allow bacteria to enter the pulp chamber, leading to severe discomfort and sensitivity. An emergency dentist will assess the severity of the issue through a clinical examination and digital imaging. This evaluation determines the most effective treatment plan and confirms whether the tooth can be saved through root canal therapy.
A root canal provides substantial benefits. Commonly cited benefits of a root canal include:
With immediate emergency dental care, the treated tooth can remain functional for many years.
A root canal performed by an emergency dentist follows a structured process designed to remove infection and protect the tooth. First, the dental team will administer a local anesthetic to ensure a comfortable experience during the process. They will also place a dental dam over the treatment area, isolating the tooth and keeping it clean and saliva-free during the procedure.
Once the patient is numb, the dentist will make a small opening in the tooth to reach the infected pulp. Then, they will use small instruments to remove the damaged tissue. The dental team will carefully clean and shape each canal to prevent further bacteria.
After the space is cleaned and shaped, the emergency dentist will fill the root canals with a biocompatible material known as gutta-percha. This material is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. In most cases, the dentist will place a temporary filling to close the opening; the dentist will remove the filling when it is time to restore the tooth with a dental crown.
It is normal to feel mild soreness after root canal treatment, particularly if the infection was serious. The patient can take over-the-counter medication to help with any temporary pain. The emergency dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment or suggest that the patient see their regular dental provider for a permanent crown. The right dental restoration helps ensure the tooth's long-term stability and prevents future problems.
Do you think you may need a root canal? The John B. Burgess, DDS team is here to help you find the relief you need. Call our Oak Ridge office today to speak to our emergency dentist or to schedule a same-day appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.johnbburgessdds.com or call John B. Burgess, DDS at (865) 321-9505 for an appointment in our Oak Ridge office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Emergency Dentist in Oak Ridge, TN.
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