- 14631 Lee Hwy STE 201, Centreville, VA 20121
- (703) 890-3200
Sterling, VA Root Canal Therapy
Root Canal Therapy by Total Dental Arts
At Total Dental Arts, we understand how painful and disruptive a severely decayed or infected tooth can be. If you’re facing the possibility of a tooth extraction, you may be relieved to know that root canal therapy offers an effective alternative that allows you to save your natural tooth. Dr. Kourosh and his expert team specialize in providing stress-free, comfortable root canal treatments to residents of Sterling. Our goal is to preserve your natural teeth while relieving the discomfort caused by infection and ensuring long-lasting dental health.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to treat an infection or damage to the pulp of your tooth, which contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected due to a cavity, crack, or trauma to the tooth, bacteria can enter, leading to inflammation, severe pain, and even further spread of the infection. Root canal therapy involves removing the infected tissue, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent reinfection, thus preserving the tooth and restoring its function.
At Total Dental Arts, we use advanced dental technologies to ensure that your root canal procedure is as comfortable, efficient, and successful as possible. With modern techniques and tools, root canal therapy is more precise and less invasive than ever before, helping you avoid tooth extraction and save your natural tooth.
When Do You Need a Root Canal Treatment?
You may need a root canal if your tooth’s pulp becomes infected or inflamed. This is usually caused by untreated cavities, cracks, or trauma to the tooth. Some common signs that you may need a root canal include:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the stimulus is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth
- A small bump or pimple-like formation on the gums near the affected tooth
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- A bad taste in your mouth or persistent bad breath
- A loose tooth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to further complications, including the spread of infection to nearby teeth or even your bloodstream.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy in Sterling, VA
Opting for root canal therapy over tooth extraction offers several important benefits. First and foremost, a root canal allows you to preserve your natural tooth, which is essential for maintaining the alignment and function of your bite. Teeth that are left untreated or extracted can lead to other dental issues, such as misalignment, difficulty chewing, or the need for costly replacements like implants or bridges.
At Total Dental Arts, we also use state-of-the-art dental technologies to enhance the precision and comfort of the root canal procedure. Tools like Endolift and Element Connect allow us to perform root canal therapy with greater accuracy, reducing discomfort and improving recovery times. This ensures that you can return to your daily routine as quickly as possible with a healthier, pain-free smile.
What to Expect Before & During a Root Canal Procedure
Before your root canal procedure, Dr. Kourosh will thoroughly examine your tooth and take x-rays to assess the extent of the infection and determine the best course of action. Based on this evaluation, we will develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on preserving your tooth and alleviating your discomfort.
On the day of the procedure, we will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring that you remain pain-free throughout the treatment. Once the area is numb, Dr. Kourosh will create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. He will carefully remove the damaged tissue, clean the inside of the tooth, and disinfect the root canals to eliminate any bacteria.
After cleaning the tooth, we will fill it with a special material to seal the canals and prevent further infection. A temporary filling will be placed to protect the tooth until you return for your final restorative appointment, where a dental crown will be placed to provide added strength and protection.
What to Expect After a Root Canal Procedure
After your root canal treatment, it is common to experience some discomfort, especially during the first 24 to 48 hours. This is typically due to the healing process, and the pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or Advil. If the infection was severe, the discomfort may last a little longer, but it should gradually subside.
You may also be prescribed antibiotics to help prevent any potential reinfection. It’s important to follow Dr. Kourosh’s aftercare instructions and take any prescribed medications as directed to ensure a smooth recovery.
Once your tooth has healed, a dental crown will be placed to restore its strength and protect it from further damage. Since a tooth that has undergone a root canal is more fragile than a healthy tooth, a crown is essential to prevent the tooth from breaking or becoming further damaged.
Potential Complications of Root Canal Therapy
Although root canal therapy is generally safe and effective, complications can occur. Some potential issues include reinfection of the tooth, fractures or cracks in the tooth, or prolonged pain due to improper healing. To minimize the risk of complications, it’s essential to attend all follow-up appointments and stick to your aftercare instructions.
If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as increased pain or swelling after your procedure, be sure to contact us immediately. Early intervention can help address any issues before they become more serious.
Schedule a Root Canal Consultation with Total Dental Arts
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a tooth infection or suspect that you may need a root canal, don’t wait. Contact Total Dental Arts today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kourosh. Our team is committed to providing gentle, effective root canal therapy to residents of Sterling, VA, and surrounding areas.
Call us today at (703) 890-3200 to schedule your appointment! We’ll conduct a thorough examination, discuss your treatment options, and help you make an informed decision about the best course of action for your oral health.