If you have been told that you need a root canal, it is natural to feel anxious or nervous about the procedure. However, root canal treatment is a common and effective way to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment is not a painful or uncomfortable procedure, and with modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the procedure. In fact, root canal treatment can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with a damaged or infected tooth and help you avoid more serious dental problems down the line.
Signs You Need Root Canal Treatment
There are several signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Persistent pain: If you have persistent pain in a tooth, especially when biting down or applying pressure, it could be a sign of damaged or infected pulp.
- Tooth sensitivity: If you experience sudden, sharp pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and beverages, this could indicate the need for root canal treatment.
- Swollen or tender gums: If the gums around the affected tooth are swollen or tender to the touch, it could be a sign of an infection.
- Discolored tooth: If the affected tooth is discolored, it could be a sign of nerve damage or infection.
- Cracked or chipped tooth: If the affected tooth is cracked or chipped, it could expose the pulp to bacteria and cause an infection.
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment with us at Reston Dental Care as soon as possible. A prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further complications and save your tooth with a root canal procedure.
What To Expect During a Root Canal
Root canal treatment is typically performed in one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the damage or infection. Here is what you can expect during the procedure:
- Local anesthesia: We will first administer a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Access to the pulp: Our dentists will create a small access hole in the top of the affected tooth, allowing them to access the pulp chamber and canals.
- Removal of damaged or infected pulp: We will use specialized tools to carefully remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth.
- Cleaning and shaping of the canals: We will clean and shape the canals inside the tooth, ensuring that all traces of pulp and infection are removed.
- Filling and sealing: Once the canals are cleaned and shaped, we will fill them with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and place a temporary filling.
- Placement of a permanent restoration: In most cases, a root canal-treated tooth will require a permanent restoration such as a crown or filling to restore its strength and functionality.
After the procedure, you may experience some minor discomfort or sensitivity, but this should subside within a few days. Our dentists will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure that you heal properly and avoid any complications.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy provides many benefits, including:
- Saves an infected or damaged tooth from extraction
- Relieves pain and discomfort associated with the infection
- Prevents the spread of infection to other teeth and the jawbone
- Restores the function and appearance of the affected tooth
- Can prevent the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures in the future
Ease Your Discomfort Today!
If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal, do not hesitate to call us at 703-689-0110 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jenny Cheung and associates. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help you avoid further complications and preserve your oral health. Take action today to save your smile with root canal therapy in Reston, Virginia.
