When dental patients are in need of a root canal, they may be referred to an endodontist for the procedure. Most patients receive this treatment in a timely manner, usually within a week or two of the last visit. However, there are situations where root canal treatment is more pressing and should be completed as soon as possible.
Unlike other types of dental work that address damage to the hard outer structures of the tooth, root canals are used to treat decay that has made its way inside to the tooth pulp. When these soft tissues become diseased, the result can be painful and are likely to lead to an infection and tooth loss if left untreated. When an endodontist performs a root canal, the diseased tissue is removed and the tooth structure is completely sterilized and sealed. A crown may be placed if the damage to the tooth was extensive and weakened its overall structure. Most of the time, a root canal is not an emergency procedure, but it can be if a patient exhibits certain symptoms.
New, sudden, or chronic tooth pain usually warrants a visit to a dental office. In some situations, it is safe for patients to wait a few days to be seen as long as the pain is manageable. However, when any of the following symptoms or events take place, it is considered a dental emergency and requires prompt treatment.
Serious injuries can put a patient at risk of losing a permanent tooth. When teeth are chipped, loose, or completely knocked out, time is of the essence. Seeing a dentist right away can help prevent complications and infections from developing and may even help a patient keep the affected tooth.
Severe pain is a problem when it comes to dental health. Typically, this level of discomfort is a sign of an infection, especially when accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms:
Infections that move into the bloodstream and spread throughout the body can be dangerous, so these symptoms should be taken seriously and evaluated by a dental professional immediately. If the infection is located in the pulp of a tooth, an endodontist will likely perform an emergency root canal.
Some bleeding after flossing is normal. However, if oral bleeding persists or seems to arise without reason, this could be a cause for concern. Many times, this type of blood loss can point to an infection or a serious case of gum disease.
In many cases, an endodontist will schedule a root canal treatment within a few days or weeks after receiving a diagnosis. However, if the diseased tooth pulp is causing intolerable pain or if the infection is spreading, emergency dental work may be necessary. Patients should not ignore the signs of a dental emergency, because waiting can lead to serious consequences.
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