CFS Dental

Is a Root Canal a Dental Emergency?

July 30, 2024
|
Posted By: CFS Dental

A root canal infection (or any oral health concern that causes you pain or puts your smile at risk) is a dental emergency in Oatley, NSW.

The dentist should see you as soon as possible to prevent infection spread, tooth loss or increasing discomfort.

What Are the Signs of a Tooth Root Infection?

If you have a root canal infection, you typically have some or all of the following symptoms:

  • Toothache
  • Jaw or face swelling
  • A blister on the gum
  • A discoloured tooth

In rare cases, if the tooth nerve is damaged, you may not experience significant pain, but you should always contact your emergency dentist in Oatley, NSW if you have swelling or oral health changes.

Root Canal Causes and Risk Factors

To lower your risks for root canal infections, it’s essential to avoid the common causes, which include oral injury, lack of appropriate dental care, or poor oral hygiene.

When tooth enamel is compromised due to decay or damage, bacteria can eventually reach the canal, forming a painful infection.

You can lower your infection risks by:

  • Visiting the dentist regularly for checks and cleans
  • Adopting and implementing an excellent oral care regimen
  • Wearing the proper mouthguard when playing on a sporting team
  • Talking to your dentist if you suspect bruxism (teeth grinding)

Root Canal Treatment in Oatley, NSW

We numb the area around your painful tooth and gently extract the infection from its canal. After irrigating the tooth, we seal it temporarily with a transient filling. After a few weeks, we provide a permanent filling or dental crown to restore function.

Remember, root canal therapy is not painful. It relieves pain.

Do You Need an Emergency Dentist?

To book an emergency dental visit, or if you have questions about your oral health, a team member is standing by to take your call today on (02) 9570 6999.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.