Is A Root Canal Considered To Be A Dental Emergency? Yes – Here’s Why!

November 11, 2025

If you think your tooth is infected and that you need a root canal in Knoxville, you may be wondering if you should see an emergency dentist. Does a root canal count as a dental emergency?

The answer is “yes!” If you think you need a root canal, this is a serious dental emergency. So give Confident Smiles & Implants a call at (813) 957-4891 to schedule your same-day appointment now, and get the treatment you need right away.

Why Do Root Canals Count As Dental Emergencies? Explaining The Basics

There are a lot of reasons that root canals count as dental emergencies, and require immediate treatment from a dentist like Dr. Luis or Dr. Tori Mariusso. Here are just a few of them:

  • Infected teeth cause lots of pain and discomfort – Tooth infections are very painful. As bacteria attack the nerve-filled pulp inside your tooth, you will have an excruciating toothache. This can make it hard to eat, speak, or even go about your day-to-day routine. Emergency dentistry is always the best way to relieve tooth pain.

  • Tooth infections can cause further complications – If it’s left untreated, your tooth infection will kill your tooth. It may fall out, requiring you to get a replacement like partial denture, a dental implant, or a dental bridge. In some cases, severe tooth infections can even cause sepsis, a life-threatening, whole-body response to the infection.

  • Early intervention saves time and money – The sooner you get treatment, the more quickly you can eliminate your pain and prevent further complications. This saves you money, too. Getting a root canal is a lot cheaper than having a tooth extracted and replaced, which may be necessary if you don’t get emergency care in time.

What Are The Signs That I Have An Infected Tooth And Need A Root Canal? 

Are you not sure whether or not you have an infected tooth? Here are the top signs that you have a tooth infection and need an emergency root canal in Knoxville. 

  • Prolonged tooth pain – If you have a toothache that lasts for more than a day or two, this is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Infections are the most common causes of toothaches, so you should see an emergency dentist for help right away. 
  • Pain that spreads past your tooth into your jaw and face – In severe cases, the pain from an infected tooth could spread into your jaw and face. Tooth infections can even cause a sinus infection (sinusitis) in some cases.
  • Sensitivity when chewing and biting – Even if your tooth doesn't hurt all the time, sensitivity in a particular tooth could indicate an infection. If one of your tooth hurts when you chew and bite, or when you eat hot and cold foods, you should see the dentist for a diagnosis.

  • Discoloration of the tooth or gums – Due to heavy bacterial buildup, the gum tissue near an infected tooth may swell and become discolored or tender. The tooth itself could also be discolored. This indicates a very severe and advanced infection, so get help right away.

Contact Confident Smiles & Implants Today For Same-Day Care In Farragut

Our team is proud to offer emergency dental care in Knoxville. We offer immediate care, as well as dental sedation to keep you comfortable and eliminate your pain. Dr. Tori and Dr. Luis Mariuosso are experienced emergency dentists, and are standing by to provide you with the same-day care you need. Contact us at (813) 957-4891 to speak to our team and get the assistance you need.

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