A dental emergency isn’t something that you would think will happen to you. However, if it does, you’ll need to see an emergency dentist in Richmond right away. We’ve put together a list of the standard endodontic procedures used to address emergency dental issues involving the inner tissues of the teeth.
What Are the Common Endodontic Procedures for Dental Emergencies?
Emergency Root Canal
Dentists perform emergency root canal procedures to save teeth that otherwise need extraction. Moreover, this is the treatment of choice for inflamed or infected dental pulp or canals. While the pulp refers to the core layer of the tooth, the canals are naturally occurring anatomic spaces within the tooth’s root.
Inflammation and Infection occurring in these structures are typically caused by deep cavities and cracks or fractures in the tooth. Ignoring these issues will eventually lead to severe discomfort, abscess formation, and tooth loss. Although the symptoms may vary, they include recurrent throbbing pain, tooth sensitivity, tooth discoloration, and tenderness deep inside the bone.
During a root canal procedure, the endodontist removes the infected pulp and thoroughly cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth and the root canals. Next, they fill the canals with a biocompatible, rubber-like material called gutta-percha before sealing them off with adhesive cement. They may place a dental crown over the treated tooth to protect it from further damage and restore its appearance and function.
Emergency Apicoectomy
A root canal treatment is usually enough to save a badly inflamed or infected tooth. However, in rare situations where a standard root canal doesn’t solve the issue, the endodontist may recommend an apicoectomy to save the tooth.
An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, is a retrograde root canal treatment that involves the removal of a tooth’s root tip and surrounding tissue.
During the procedure, the endodontist exposes the infected area by making an incision in the gum and a tiny opening in the bone on the tip of the root. Next, they’ll remove the infected tissue, disinfect the root tip, and use a filling to seal the root.
Looking for an Emergency Dentist in Richmond?
At Commonwealth Endodontics, our goal is to guide our patients along the path of optimal dental health. If you’re ready to experience the highest level of endodontic care in a friendly, safe, and comfortable environment, make an appointment with us today.