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Emergency Root Canal: When and Why You Might Need One

If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, swelling, or unusual sensitivity, you might be in need of an emergency root canal. This common procedure helps save a tooth that has been affected by deep decay or infection, and it is crucial to address these issues promptly. Our office offers same-day visits for emergency dental care in Montebello, delivering the highest quality dentistry to ensure your comfort and peace of mind.


What is an Emergency Root Canal?


An emergency root canal is needed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep cavities, repeated dental work on the same tooth, or trauma. During the procedure, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed, and the tooth is restored, typically with a dental crown. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to more serious issues. If you are searching for an emergency dentist near me in Los Angeles, the same urgency applies—root canal treatments help prevent further decay or infection from spreading to other teeth or even into the bloodstream.


Tooth with large cavity to be treated with an emergency root canal in Los Angeles CA
Patient with a tooth with large cavity presents for an emergency root canal treatment to Dr. Hakham's dental office

Signs You Might Need an Emergency Root Canal in Los Angeles


Knowing the signs of needing an emergency root canal can help you take action before the situation worsens. Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or biting, is often an indicating symptom. Additionally, if you have noticed that your tooth has become discolored or you are experiencing sensitivity to hot or cold foods that lingers, it is time to seek help. Swollen gums, facial swelling, or a small pimple-like bump on the gums could also indicate an abscess, which is a clear sign that urgent treatment is needed.


Indications for emergency root canal in Los Angeles CA
Indications for emergency root canal

Recognizing the signs of needing an emergency root canal is key to preventing further damage. Common symptoms include:


  • Persistent and severe tooth pain: 

    Pain that does not go away, especially when chewing or biting, is often a major indicator that a root canal may be necessary.


  • Sensitivity to hot or cold: 

    If you experience prolonged sensitivity after eating hot or cold foods or drinks, it could mean the tooth’s pulp is damaged.


  • Swollen gums or face: 

    Swelling in the gums or even the face can be a sign of infection, requiring prompt dental attention.


  • Discoloration of the tooth: 

    If your tooth has turned gray or darkened, it may indicate that the inner pulp is dying.


  • Abscess or pimple on the gums: 

    A pimple-like bump on the gums, often filled with pus, is a clear signal of infection.


If you live in Los Angeles and notice these symptoms, seeking prompt care is essential to prevent the problem from escalating. Delaying treatment could lead to severe complications, such as the infection spreading to other areas or the need for tooth extraction.

 

Why Timely Treatment is Crucial


Time is of the essence when dealing with an infected tooth. An untreated infection can lead to more severe health problems, including abscesses, tooth loss, or even systemic infections. That is why we offer same-day dental visits in Los Angeles to handle urgent dental needs. Our expert team is here to provide quick, effective treatment and ensure your comfort throughout the process. Immediate care can save your tooth, relieve your pain, and stop further damage from occurring.

If the tooth is savable, a root canal can remove the infection and preserve your tooth. However, in some cases, the tooth may be too damaged for a root canal, and extraction might be necessary. In such situations, we offer dental implants as a long-term solution for replacing the missing tooth. Dental implants look and function like natural teeth, making them a great option after extraction.


Patient in Los Angeles CA presents for an ermergency root canal on his tooth with a large cavity
Patient from Los Angeles CA presents for an ermergency root canal on his tooth with a large cavity

What to Expect During an Emergency Root Canal


When you visit our office for an emergency root canal in Montebello, the process begins with an examination and X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. Once Dr. Hakham confirms that a root canal treatment is necessary, he will remove the infected pulp inside the tooth, clean the root canals, and then seal the tooth to protect it from further infection. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the treatment. Afterward, you may experience some soreness, but this will subside within a few days. After the root canal, a dental crown is often placed on top of the treated tooth to restore its strength and appearance. The crown protects the tooth from further damage, allowing it to function just like any other tooth. In some cases, if the tooth cannot be saved, it may be extracted and replaced with a dental implant in the future. If you are in Montebello or Los Angeles, you can count on our office to make the procedure as smooth as possible and get you back to feeling normal quickly.


Radiograph of tooth with a large cavity reaching the pulp to be treated with emergency root canal in Los Angeles CA
Radiograph of tooth with a large cavity reaching the pulp to be treated with emergency root canal by Dr. David Hakham

Restoring a Tooth After a Root Canal Treatment


After a root canal, your tooth may become fragile and is often restored with a dental crown. A crown provides strength and protection to the remaining tooth structure, preventing future damage. Crowns are custom made to match the shape and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and long lasting restoration.



If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, finding an emergency dentist near me is critical. It is important to find an emergency dentist who can address your needs quickly. Our dentist in Montebello provides same-day visits, and you can easily book an appointment through our website or by calling us directly. We serve both Montebello and Los Angeles, offering top quality dental care when you need it most.


radiograph of tooth after emergency root canal in Montebello CA
Radiograph of tooth after Dr. David Hakham completed Emergency root canal treatment

Whether you need an emergency root canal, a dental crown to restore your tooth, or even an extraction and dental implant, our dental team in Montebello is here to help. If you are experiencing symptoms like severe tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, it may be time for an emergency root canal. Do not delay treatment—call our office today to schedule an appointment or book an appointment online for immediate relief. We deliver the highest quality emergency dental care to protect your oral health and restore your smile.



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