Root Canals & Endodontic Treatment in Annandale, VA

A root canal is a common dental procedure designed to save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. This treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then filling and sealing it. Here's a closer look at when a root canal entails and how to recognize when you might need one.

What is a Root canal?

The root canal is the space inside the tooth's root that contains the pulp - a soft tissue made up of nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or severely damaged, often due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a crack, chip in the tooth, or trauma, a root canal is necessary to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth.

The Root Canal Procedure:

Diagnosis: Your dentist will perform a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, to determine if a root canal is needed.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring a comfortable procedure.
Access Opening: The dentist drills a small opening in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber / nerve space.
Cleaning and Shaping: The dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp and cleans and shapes the root canals.
Filling: The empty canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal them and prevent future infections.
Sealing: The tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. Many teeth will require a crown or cap for additional protection.

Sign and Symptoms That You Might Need a Root Canal

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it may indicate that a root canal is needed:

Severe Toothache: Persistent pain that may be throbbing or sharp, especially when chewing or applying a pressure.
Prolonged Sensitivity: Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after the stimulus is removed.
Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling in the gums near the affected tooth, which may be accompanied by tenderness.
Discoloration: Darkening or discoloration of the tooth, which can be a sign of decay or nerve damage.
Persistent Pain: Ongoing or recurring pain in the affected area that doesn't go away with over - the - counter pain medication or antibiotics.

Post - Root Canal Care: The Need for a Crown

After a root canal, the tooth is often left weakend and more susceptible to fractures due to decay, cracks, or trauma. To protect and strengthen the tooth, your dentist will typically recommended placing a dental crown. A crown is a custom - made cap that covers the tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function while also providing additional protection.

Step After Root Canal Treatment:

Temporary Filling: After the root canal, a temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth until the crown is ready.
Crown Placement: You will return to a restorative dentist to have a permanent crown fitted. The crown is custom- made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
Ongoing Care: Maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check - ups to ensure the longevity of your treated tooth and crown.

Root canal treatment is a highly effective way to save your tooth and alleviate pain caused by infection or damage. At Prestige Dental Specialists, serving Fairfax County, including Burke and surroundings areas, our expert team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and precision. If you're experiencing any symptoms that suggest you might need a root canal, schedule a consultation with us. We will guide you to the best course of action to preserve your natural tooth and restore your oral health.

FAQS

Is the root canal painful? No, root canals are typically performed under local anesthesia, making them virtually painless.

How long does a root canal procedure take? Root canal treatment may take anywhere from one to three visits, depending on complexity of the tooth's internal anatomy and the extent of any infection affecting of the tooth, surrounding bone, or gum tissue. Each appointment can last between 30 to 90 minutes.

Are you awake during the root canal? Most of our patients remain awake during a root canal procedure, due to local anesthesia that numbs the area. However, if you feel anxious about your procedure, we can provide nitrous oxide, oral medication, or IV sedation.