15 Cornerstone Ct #3A, Plantsville, CT 06479
Southington Dentistry | Clenching and Grinding, Dental Crowns and Sedation Dentistry
(860) 263-0401
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Is a Root Canal a Dental Emergency?

March 29, 2023

It's not always easy to say what constitutes a medical emergency, especially when it comes to oral health issues. If you knock out a tooth, for example, then you know for sure that you need to see a dentist immediately. But, what if you are experiencing tooth pain? 

Unfortunately, most of us will try to postpone seeing the dentist and control the problem with over-the-counter pain medication. We do it because we are afraid that the treatment might be too painful, especially if we suspect that we might need a root canal in Southington. But, while pain medication can provide some temporary relief, it will not fix the problem. Moreover, waiting too long to see your dentist may cause even more problems and increase the risk of losing your tooth. 

With that in mind, here's why a root canal is a dental emergency and why you should get in touch with one of the doctors at Southington Dentistry right away. 

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure during which the dentist will remove the pulp and nerve of an infected tooth or of a tooth that has reached a point of extreme decay. 

If the infection is too severe, then the dentist may need to treat it with a course of antibiotics first before they can drill the tooth. 

Don't worry, root canals aren't usually painful. You will be under local anesthesia while the dentist drills your tooth and removes the pulp. After the tooth has been cleaned, you may need a dental crown to restore your tooth. 

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

These signs can tell you if you have an infected tooth that needs root canal therapy:

  • Severe tooth pain while biting and chewing 
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Darker gums
  • Swollen and tender gums 
  • Chipped or cracked tooth

So, Is a Root Canal a Dental Emergency?

Yes, a root canal is considered a dental emergency, and here's why. 

Tooth infections aren't only extremely painful, but they can be very dangerous too. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other teeth and even different organs in your body, leading to a deadly condition known as sepsis. 

And, because it can be hard to determine by yourself how advanced the infection is, you should see a dentist immediately to get the right treatment. 

Don't postpone seeing a dentist because you fear the procedure. As we said, root canals are completely safe and not painful. In fact, the pressure you will feel during a root canal is nothing compared to the pain you are probably experiencing now. 

Are You In A Lot Of Pain? Don't Wait a Minute Longer! Call Us Right Now! 

If you are in a lot of pain and suspect that you may need a root canal, then you should get in touch with Southington Dentistry right away. 

We offer emergency services, so just call us at (860) 628-5029 and tell us about your problem. 

For regular appointments, you can contact us online

Dental Emergencies Welcome

Same day dental emergency appointments available.

Call today!

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Southington Dentistry

15 Cornerstone Ct #3A
Plantsville, CT 06479
New Patients: (860) 263-0401

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