When it comes to dental emergencies, many people are not sure what qualifies as an emergency and what could wait for a regular appointment. Dental pain is always hard to take and it can disrupt your life due to the intensity and duration of the discomfort.

If you suspect you are in need of a root canal intervention, read on and see how and why it qualifies as an emergency that should be seen as soon as possible by a professional.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a common dental intervention during which infected and decayed tissue inside your tooth is extracted. Further on, the tooth is cleaned on the inside, disinfected, and filled with a special material that will protect it from future infections and preserve its strength and function.

If you are getting a root canal for the first time, here is what to expect. Your mouth will be cleaned and a local anesthetic will be injected into the problematic area. The dentist will extract decayed tooth tissue through a drilled hole. Using gradually bigger instruments, the dentist will thoroughly clean the inside of your tooth. Once it is free of infected tissue, your tooth gets a filling. 

Is a Root Canal a Dental Emergency?

A root canal is a method of treating a dental emergency, as it is needed in case of infection and unalleviated pain. If left untreated, a root canal infection can spread and even lead to sepsis in some cases.

Most often, though, patients show up at the office quickly for a root canal, as it causes intense pain that does not disappear. Symptoms of a root canal infection can include fever, a foul smell coming from the infected area, swelling, intense pain, and extreme sensitivity to touch or changes in temperature. 

If you have any symptoms indicating a tooth infection, call us at (703) 288-1800 Calls on Click to schedule an emergency appointment at the office of Priti Naik, DDS.

Common Dental Emergencies

If you are unsure about what other issues qualify as dental emergencies, here are the most common examples:

• Chipped or fractured tooth
• Gum or mouth tissue infection (swelling, fever, pain, etc.)
• Severe bleeding inside of the mouth
• Face and mouth injuries like cuts, severe bites, etc.

If you are unsure about your dental issue, just call a dental office and ask when you should book an appointment to solve it. 

Book a Dental Appointment Now

If you are in need of reconstructive dentistry, contact Priti Naik, DDS today and book a consultation with one of our experienced medical experts. We will make sure your problem is solved with urgency and utmost care. 

Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment to make your smile healthy and bright again.