It can't be stressed enough: regular cleanings and dental check-ups can detect most tooth problems early, eliminating the need for most emergency dentistry procedures.
When a cavity is allowed, through neglect, to reach all the way to the pulp of a tooth and eat away at the surrounding bone, the result is excruciating pain, and infection that can weaken the entire immune system. This is when root canal treatment becomes necessary.
In root canal treatment (also referred to as root canal therapy or endodontic therapy), your dentist cleans out the infected tooth pulp, and disinfects the canals of the tooth. Once the infection is resolved, the canal(s) are filled in to prevent any further infection. Usually a core build-up and crown are recommended for restoring the tooth.
By the time the pulp is infected, it will not heal on its own! If not treated immediately with a root canal, your only other alternative may be to extract the tooth. Waiting, hoping, and praying is not an option here. If you have a severe toothache, sensitivity to hot/cold food or drinks or sweets, swelling, pain or pressure when biting, or a bad taste in your mouth, call Gregory E Utecht DDS in Lincoln, NE, ASAP.