What Are Root Canal Treatments?

Endodontic treatment, or root canal surgery, is the removal of infected or exposed soft pulp tissue. This procedure eases the pain and swelling that is often associated with the infection. It also restores your tooth’s function as the soft, inner tooth pulp tissue cannot repair itself. If you are suffering from infected or injured pulp tissue, call our office immediately to schedule a root canal in Fairfax

How Do I Know When a Root Canal Is Needed?

Treatment is necessary to save the tooth if the tooth’s pulp is infected or damaged. Symptoms range from persistent tooth pain to extreme gum swelling. Here are a few other symptoms that may point to the need for treatment:

Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Sensitivity to touch
Deep cavities
Tooth discoloration
Pain that wakes you while you’re sleeping
Persistent gum pimples
Pain when chewing or biting down

What Dentists Offer Root Canals?

A general dentist is a qualified root canal dentist, and endodontists are specialists in the field. If you are experiencing tooth pain, call our office and we’ll schedule you an appointment with one our skilled dentists.

What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?

Your dentist will likely schedule one to two hours to complete the dental root canal. The procedure involves these steps:

Your dentist numbs your gums and teeth so you don’t feel pain during the procedure.
A small opening is made in the tooth’s crown in order to access the tooth’s pulp chamber.
Your dentist cleans out the affected pulp using small instruments. The tooth root’s canals are then cleaned out, shaped, disinfected and filled.
A temporary filling closes the small opening at the root canal of the tooth, and work on a permanent crown for the tooth begins. You’ll likely need to return to your dentist for the final root canal crown delivery.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The average cost of the procedure varies widely, depending on factors such as whether you’re treated by a general dentist or an endodontist. The type of tooth being treated also affects the price. Molars, for example, have four roots and are more difficult to reach. Our office can give you a cost estimate after a thorough evaluation. Contact our office so we can connect you with one of our experienced dentists.

What Types of Root Canals Are Available?

A standard root canal procedure is an effective treatment for most teeth. In some cases, a different endodontic treatment like an apicoectomy is required. This treatment involves the removal of the end of the tooth root. This is usually used for teeth that have undergone unsuccessful endodontic procedures in the past.

Is Dental Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Some people joke about the pain of a root canal, but we use local anesthesia to keep our patients comfortable during treatment. Don’t jeopardize your tooth or put your health at risk by ignoring tooth pain and other important symptoms. Call us immediately to find relief from your tooth pain.

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Root Canal & Endodontics in Fairfax, VA