Dental pain can strike without warning and when it does, many patients wonder whether an emergency dentist can perform a root canal. The short answer is yes, in many cases, an emergency dentist can and does perform root canal treatment, especially when the pain is severe or the tooth is infected.
Let’s break it down so you know what to expect.
When is a Root Canal considered a Dental Emergency?
A root canal becomes an emergency when the inner pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, causing symptoms such as:
- Severe, persistent tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn’t go away
- Swelling in the gums or face
- A dental abscess (pimple-like bump on gums)
- Pain while chewing or biting
- Fever caused by dental infection
In these situations, delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread, making immediate care necessary.
Can an Emergency Dentist perform a Root Canal?
Yes. Many emergency dentists are fully equipped to perform root canals during emergency visits. If the infection is advanced and the tooth can be saved, a root canal is often the best solution to:
- Relieve pain quickly
- Remove infection
- Prevent tooth extraction
- Restore normal chewing function
In some cases, the emergency dentist may start the root canal by cleaning the infected pulp and placing medication, then complete the procedure in a follow-up visit.
When might a Root Canal be delayed?
There are situations where the dentist may stabilize the tooth first rather than complete the entire root canal during the emergency visit, such as:
- Severe swelling or active infection requiring antibiotics first
- Complex cases that need a specialist (endodontist)
- Time limitations during after-hours emergency visits
Even then, pain relief and infection control are always the priority.
What happens during an Emergency Root Canal visit?
During your emergency appointment, the dentist will:
- Examine the tooth and take X-rays
- Diagnose the cause of pain
- Remove infected pulp from the tooth
- Clean and disinfect the root canals
- Seal the tooth or place a temporary filling
A permanent crown may be placed later to fully restore the tooth.
Is a Root Canal Painful?
Modern root canal treatment is no more painful than getting a filling. With local anesthesia and advanced techniques, emergency dentists focus on making the procedure comfortable while providing fast relief from intense pain.