Root Canal & Endodontics in Woodbridge

What’s Root Canal Surgery?

This endodontic procedure is performed when the soft tissue inside a tooth is infected, exposed or injured, which may cause excruciating pain. Root canals are used when the tooth is too far damaged for a filling or a deep infection needs to be removed. A root canal procedure will remove the damaged tissue and your dentist will fill the area with a flexible substance called gutta-percha to prevent further decay from damaging the tooth.

How Do I Know I Need a Root Canal?

Aside from the considerable amount of pain that you may be experiencing, the following signs may indicate that you need endodontic dentistry:

• Cavities or tooth discoloration
• Temperature sensitivity
• Moderate or severe dental pain that disrupts your sleep
• Pain when you bite down
• Swollen gums around the tooth

Although the presence of any of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean you need a root canal, the presence of all or most of them may indicate that you need endodontic treatment. If you have any, most, or all of these symptoms, then call our Woodbridge office for an appointment. Don’t delay seeking treatment because the infection won’t heal without professional intervention, so call us today.

Do I Need to See a Specialist for a Dental Root Canal?

Depending on the severity of your case, a general dentist may be able to perform a dental root canal treatment on your tooth. If you have a complicated issue, then we may refer you to an endodontist in the Woodbridge area. Call us today for an appointment so that we can get you back to good oral health or refer you to a local endodontist.

What Will Be Included in My Procedure?

If yours is a simple procedure, then we may be able to accomplish it in one office visit that will take up to two hours. The following steps are involved:

• We’ll numb the area so that you’ll be comfortable
• We’ll place a temporary shield in the area so that the tooth is isolated
• Your root canal dentist will drill a small hole in your tooth crown
• We’ll remove the damaged pulp and prepare the canals for the gutta-percha
• We’ll flush the area to remove debris and disinfect them
• Your dentist will fill the area with the gutta-percha
• Your dentist will install a root canal crown so that the treated tooth doesn’t fracture or get damaged

We’ll make sure you’re as comfortable as possible during your procedure, so if you need this type of endodontic treatment, then call us to schedule an appointment, don’t suffer in pain needlessly.

How Much Will a Root Canal Cost Me?

The cost of a procedure is unique to the patient, so we won’t know your exact cost until we examine your tooth. Factors that will influence the cost of your procedure include:

• The severity of the damage
• The location of the tooth
• The type of tooth that’s affected
• Whether you’re treated by a general dentist or an endodontist
• Other procedures you may need
• Your insurance benefits

During your initial consultation, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive estimate of your cost after your dentist has completed the examination. If you need this done, call us today for an appointment and we can help you restore your good oral health and eliminate your pain.

How Many Types of Root Canals Are There?

Usually, this type of endodontic treatment is performed on the back teeth, which are called molars. However, root canals can be done on any type of tooth. Alternatives include an apicoectomy that removes the tip of a tooth root after an unsuccessful treatment in a dentist’s office, and a pediatric pulpotomy, which removes damaged pulp, but the nerve remains intact. If you have a damaged tooth and need relief from your incessant pain, then call our Woodbridge office for an appointment.

Are Endodontic Treatments Always Painful?

Although root canals have the reputation of being exceedingly painful, we strive to ensure that you’re as comfortable as possible during your procedure. We use local anesthetics and additional types of pain medications as necessary so that your pain level is kept under control. Our patients tell us that we’re a great resource for these types of treatments and we do our best to maintain that reputation, so call us if you think you need this type of endodontic procedure. If you have any questions or apprehensions, we’ll be glad to answer them and put your mind at ease, so don’t delay in calling us for an appointment.

An infected or decayed tooth can be dangerous to your overall health, so don’t delay in seeking treatment if you’re experiencing pain, swelling or inflammation. If you need an endodontic treatment in Woodbridge, then call Dental One Associates of Woodbridgeat (703) 910-5020 and let us help you alleviate your pain and regain your good oral health.