Does A Root Canal Count As A Dental Emergency?

If you’ve got a toothache and think you may need a root canal in Bluffton, you may be wondering if this is a dental emergency. Do you really need to get help right away?

The answer is “yes!” And in this blog from Buckwalter Dental Care, we’ll discuss why root canals count as a dental emergency, and why it’s so important to get treatment for your infected tooth ASAP.

A Tooth Infection Is A Dental Emergency – You Need A Root Canal Right Away

Tooth infections occur when the outer layers of a tooth are damaged. This can happen due to an untreated cavity, or oral trauma that cracks your tooth. When this happens, bacteria enter the “pulp” inside your tooth.

This pulp is full of nerves and blood vessels. It’s what keeps your tooth alive. And as it becomes infected, it will start to die. This causes lots of pain, and may eventually result in tooth loss. For these reasons, a tooth infection is a serious dental emergency.

You’ll need a root canal to treat this problem. A root canal involves opening up the tooth, cleaning out infected material, and filling it with a special rubbery material to replace the missing pulp. Then, the tooth is sealed and protected with a filling or a dental crown.

A root canal relieves your pain, prevents tooth loss and other complications, and helps you get back to your day-to-day routine. And the sooner you get a root canal for a tooth infection, the better your outcome will be. That’s why we offer same-day root canals at Buckwalter Dental Care.

Recognizing An Infected Tooth – The Top Signs And Symptoms

A toothache is the most common sign of an infected tooth. If your pain or discomfort lasts 1-2 days or longer, you likely have a tooth infection.

However, not all tooth infections cause pain. You may also notice other symptoms, like discoloration of the tooth. If it looks grey, brown, or dark, it could be infected. The gum tissue near the tooth may also be swollen, red, inflamed, and discolored.

How Can I Deal With My Tooth Pain Before My Appointment?

First, it’s important to note that you can’t treat a tooth infection on your own. The only way to eliminate your pain is to come to Buckwalter Dental Care for a root canal. But if you’re in a lot of pain before your appointment, there are a few things you can do to help with your discomfort.

• Take painkillers – Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen may help with your pain.
  
  
• Ice the area – You can apply an ice pack to your cheek to help numb the pain in the affected area.
  
  
• Use a topical pain reliever – Orajel or a similar topical pain reliever can help with discomfort until you can see Dr. Darrah.
  

Got A Toothache In Bluffton? Get Help From Buckwalter Dental Care Today!

At Buckwalter Dental Care, Dr. Joel Darrah always offers same-day emergency appointments in Bluffton. If you’ve got a painful tooth and you think it may be infected, we’re here to help. With a root canal, Dr. Darrah can relieve your pain, protect your oral health, and prevent further complications. Contact us online or give us a call at (843) 815-3232 to schedule your appointment today.