A throbbing toothache in the middle of the night or a sudden cracked tooth during lunch can turn a regular day into a dental emergency. When that happens, it’s not just about getting relief from the pain; it’s about saving your tooth. 

While general dentists treat a wide range of urgent dental issues, endodontists are the go-to experts when the damage is severe, particularly affecting the pulp or root of the tooth. More than 15 million root canals are performed annually in the United States, many of which are urgent care cases. 

Read on to understand the critical role endodontists play in dental emergencies, how they help preserve your natural teeth, and how to know when it’s time to see the best endodontist in Mountain View. 

Endodontist vs. Regular Dentist: How Are They Different? 

An endodontist specializes in treating problems that occur inside the tooth, particularly in the dental pulp or tooth roots; this soft tissue contains nerves and blood vessels. If you’ve ever had a deep cavity, a cracked tooth, or a serious toothache that just won’t go away, the issue likely involves the pulp, and that’s when an endodontist steps in. 

Unlike a regular dentist, who provides a wide range of care like dental cleanings and dental fillings, endodontists have advanced training and can perform complex procedures like root canals, apicoectomies, and pulp revascularization. They also use highly specialized tools, such as operating microscopes and digital dental imaging, that help with precision and keep you more comfortable during treatment. 

When Should You See an Endodontist for a Dental Emergency? 

You should see an endodontist for dental pain that goes beyond what you can tolerate, especially lingering hot or cold sensitivity, pain when biting, or tooth discoloration after trauma. This kind of lingering pain often means there’s an issue inside the tooth that needs specialized care. Seeing an endodontist is also the right choice if you’ve had a traumatic injury, like a tooth that’s been knocked out or cracked. In many cases, they can help save the tooth if you act quickly. 

Another major red flag is swelling, pus, or a bump near your tooth or gums. These can be signs of an abscess or serious infection that may require an emergency root canal to stop the tooth infection from spreading.

Do Endodontists Handle Root Canals in Emergency Situations?

Yes, endodontists are the specialists you want when a root canal can’t wait. Emergency root canals are usually needed when the inner part of the tooth, the pulp or nerve, is inflamed or infected due to dental injury, deep tooth decay, or a crack in the tooth. Left untreated, these issues can lead to tooth loss or even more serious health problems. 

Can Endodontists Save Teeth That Seem Beyond Repair? 

Endodontists are often the last line of defense when it comes to saving teeth that seem too damaged or infected to fix. Whether it’s a tooth with deep decay, a serious crack, or a failed root canal from years ago, endodontists are trained to handle complex cases. Keeping your natural teeth helps you avoid future issues, such as bone loss, tooth shifting, or the need for dental bridges or dental implants. In short, endodontists are experts in giving even the most troubled teeth a second chance.

What to Expect During an Emergency Visit to an Endodontist

During an emergency visit to an endodontist, the first step is figuring out exactly what’s going on inside your tooth: 

  • This typically begins with diagnostic imaging, such as digital dental X-rays or a cone-beam CT scan, which provides the endodontist with a clear view of the tooth’s roots, pulp, and surrounding bone. 
  • Once they understand the problem, whether it’s a tooth infection, dental injury, or hidden damage, they’ll explain your treatment options. 
  • If urgent care is needed, the endodontist may perform a root canal immediately to alleviate your pain and prevent the infection from spreading. 

The good news is that many emergency treatments can be completed in a single visit. If you’re anxious about the procedure, dental sedation options are often available to help you stay calm and comfortable throughout.

Where to Find the Best Endodontist in Mountain View for Emergency Endodontic Treatment 

At The Modern Endodontist, we believe that doing things the right way means never cutting corners; not with your care, and not with our planet. Led by Dr. Yarah Beddawi, our practice in Mountain View offers a refreshing blend of advanced endodontic treatment, one-on-one attention, and a deeply thoughtful approach to patient comfort. 

From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll notice we do things differently. We never rush appointments, never recommend unnecessary procedures, and always take the time to understand your symptoms so we can get to the root of the problem; literally. 

Dr. Beddawi brings nearly 20 years of clinical experience, high-precision microsurgical skills, and training from UCSF and Boston University to every treatment. We also take pride in being a completely carbon-neutral practice, something no other endodontic office we know of offers. 

Ready to choose the best endodontist in Mountain View for precision care that’s not only gentle on you, but also gentle on the earth?