Emergency Dentistry
Emergency Root Canal
Procedure Description
Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy) is a procedure to save a tooth when the soft tissue inside—called the pulp—becomes infected or inflamed. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that helped build your tooth during development. When bacteria from deep decay, cracks, or trauma reach the pulp, it can cause severe pain and abscess formation. During root canal therapy, our dentists carefully remove the infected pulp using specialized instruments, clean and shape the canal system to remove all bacteria, and seal it with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then restored with a crown to protect it and restore full function. Modern root canal treatment uses advanced techniques including digital imaging and rotary instruments, making the procedure more efficient and comfortable than ever before.
Indications
Root canal therapy is recommended when the tooth's pulp becomes irreversibly damaged or infected. Early treatment can save your natural tooth and prevent the spread of infection to surrounding tissues and bone.
When to Consider Emergency Root Canal
Severe Tooth Pain
Persistent, throbbing pain that may worsen when biting, chewing, or with pressure—often a sign of pulp inflammation or infection.
Prolonged Sensitivity
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that persists long after the stimulus is removed, indicating nerve damage.
Dental Abscess
Swelling, pus, or a pimple-like bump (fistula) on the gums near the affected tooth indicating infection has spread beyond the tooth.
Deep Decay or Trauma
Cavities that have penetrated to the pulp chamber, or teeth cracked or fractured from injury exposing the inner tissue.
Darkening of the Tooth
A tooth that has become discolored or gray may indicate pulp necrosis (death) requiring treatment.
Note: Not all tooth pain requires root canal treatment. Our dentists will perform a thorough examination including X-rays and vitality testing to determine the best treatment for your situation.
Benefits
Why Choose Emergency Root Canal?
Save Your Natural Tooth
Preserving your natural tooth maintains proper chewing function, protects surrounding teeth from excessive wear, and keeps your natural bite alignment.
Immediate Pain Relief
Root canal therapy removes the source of infection, providing relief from severe tooth pain—often patients feel significantly better immediately after the procedure.
Prevent Infection Spread
Treating the infected tooth prevents bacteria from spreading to neighboring teeth, jawbone, or through the bloodstream to other parts of the body.
Cost-Effective Long-Term
Saving your natural tooth with a root canal and crown is typically more affordable than extraction followed by an implant or bridge replacement.
Natural Appearance and Function
With a properly fitted crown, your treated tooth will look and function just like your natural teeth—no one will know you had treatment.
Alternatives
Tooth Extraction
If the tooth cannot be saved or root canal is declined, extraction removes the infected tooth entirely but leaves a gap that should be filled
Dental Implant
After extraction, a titanium implant can be surgically placed to support a crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth
Dental Bridge
A fixed prosthetic that uses adjacent teeth as supports to hold a replacement tooth in the extraction site
Partial Denture
A removable appliance that replaces missing teeth, though less stable and comfortable than fixed options
Cost & Fee Schedule
Root canal treatment at Prime Dental ranges from $700-$1,500 depending on the tooth and complexity. Front teeth (incisors and canines) with single canals are on the lower end, while molars with multiple canals cost more. A dental crown ($800-$1,500) is typically recommended afterward to protect and strengthen the treated tooth. We accept most PPO dental insurance plans, which often cover 50-80% of root canal costs. Flexible payment plans are available for patients without insurance. Visit our fee schedule page for detailed pricing.
Authored By
Dr. Ovsepyan
Frequently Asked Questions
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Locations Offering Emergency Root Canal
Available at all Prime Dental locations throughout Los Angeles County
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