Dental pain doesn’t always wait for a convenient time. Whether it’s late at night, over the weekend, or during a holiday, a sudden toothache can quickly become unbearable. If you experience severe tooth pain, there is a chance you may need a root canal.
However, if it becomes agonizing, you may wonder whether you should visit your emergency dentist or seek care elsewhere. It begs the question: Can emergency dentists do root canals? Read on to learn if you can get a root canal from your dentist and why you should visit them as soon as possible when your toothache starts.
So, Can My Emergency Dentist Do a Root Canal?
Fun fact: all dentists are qualified to perform root canal therapy! Your dentist does know how to perform it, but not every dentist offers this treatment. Some prefer to specialize in other areas of dentistry and may feel more comfortable referring patients to specialists.
You can always call your emergency dentist to double-check if they perform root canals. Many dentists who provide emergency care are often experienced enough to perform root canals. If not, they can still assess the tooth and provide you with directions on who to contact to fix it.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
You need a root canal when you have an infection inside your tooth. It can cause intense pain and sensitivity to hot and cold items. Dental issues like these do not resolve on their own, so only your dentist can alleviate your pain. The treatment cleans out the infection, leaving you toothache-free.
If left untreated, a tooth infection can lead to more than just discomfort. It can spread to other teeth, your gums, or even the bloodstream in some cases. The longer a tooth is infected, the more likely it is to become too damaged for repair. Getting a root canal as soon as possible can help save your tooth and stop the pain.
What To Expect During a Root Canal
You may have heard horror stories about root canals, but they are a common procedure. More than 15 million are done every year, so it isn’t your dentist’s first rodeo. The first step is to make you comfortable so they will numb your mouth. They will remove the infection, then clean and fill the tooth. You may feel some soreness after the procedure, but it may be nothing compared to the toothache before.
If you have throbbing tooth pain, it’s best to contact your emergency dentist as soon as possible. They will help you diagnose the problem and provide solutions to fix it, whether it involves a root canal or another treatment!
About the Practice
At Khoi Dental Group, you benefit from the expertise of two dentists with over 30 years of combined experience. They have a passion for fixing all your dental needs by providing a range of services under one roof. They offer same-day emergency appointments and walk-ins for when you have a toothache that won’t leave you alone. If you want relief from your dental discomfort, schedule an appointment or call us at (904) 262-8449.