- 14631 Lee Hwy STE 201, Centreville, VA 20121
- (703) 890-3200
Root Canal Therapy in Fairfax County, VA
Root Canal Therapy at Total Dental Arts
If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, it may be a sign of a deeper issue such as an infection or damaged pulp. Root canal therapy is a reliable solution to save your natural tooth, avoiding the need for a tooth extraction. At Total Dental Arts, located in Centreville, VA, Dr. Kourosh and his skilled team provide high-quality, comfortable root canal therapy throughout Fairfax County, VA. Our goal is to preserve your teeth and alleviate pain with minimal discomfort.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a procedure used to treat infection or damage inside the tooth pulp, the soft center of your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. If the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can lead to serious pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. To prevent further complications, it’s essential to seek treatment early. Regular dental exams and maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent issues like this from arising.
When Do You Need a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal may be necessary if you have an infection in the pulp of your tooth. This infection can occur due to untreated cavities, cracks in the tooth, or physical trauma. Some common signs that you might need a root canal include:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or touching the affected tooth.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers long after the stimulus is removed.
- Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth.
- A pimple or abscess on your gums.
- Discoloration of the affected tooth.
If you are noticing any of these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly. A delay in treatment could lead to more severe pain and the potential loss of your tooth.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy for Infected or Cracked Teeth
Root canal therapy can save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. Without treatment, the infection can spread, causing further damage to surrounding teeth or even affecting your health. Dr. Kourosh uses advanced dental technologies to ensure the procedure is as precise and pain-free as possible. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth or an infection, root canal therapy can be the key to maintaining your smile for years to come.
What to Expect Before and During Root Canal Treatment
At Total Dental Arts, we prioritize your comfort. During your consultation, we will thoroughly examine your tooth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. Once we’ve assessed the issue, we’ll walk you through the procedure, explaining each step.
On the day of your root canal, we will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area. Dr. Kourosh will then create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. The infected tissue will be carefully removed, and the space will be cleaned and disinfected. Finally, we’ll fill the empty space with a biocompatible material, and place a temporary filling until your tooth is fully healed.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort for a few days, which is completely normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Tylenol or Advil, can help manage any pain. If your symptoms worsen or if you notice swelling, it’s important to contact us right away.
During the healing process, avoid chewing on the treated tooth until we place a permanent crown to protect it. The remaining tooth structure is often weakened after a root canal, and a crown helps ensure its strength and longevity.
What Causes Root Canal Complications?
While rare, complications can arise after a root canal. These may include a reinfection or a fracture in the tooth. It’s crucial to follow your aftercare instructions and attend your follow-up appointment to ensure the tooth is healing properly. If you experience unusual pain or swelling, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Schedule a Root Canal Consultation in Fairfax County
If you’re dealing with a tooth infection or need more information on root canal therapy, call us at (703) 890-3200 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation. Dr. Kourosh and the team at Total Dental Arts are here to help you restore your smile and improve your oral health with expert care.