- 14631 Lee Hwy STE 201, Centreville, VA 20121
- (703) 890-3200
Burke Root Canal Therapy
Root Canal Therapy by Total Dental Arts
If you’re dealing with a decayed or infected tooth, you may face the difficult decision of whether to undergo root canal therapy or have the tooth extracted. Root canal therapy is a highly effective treatment that can save your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction and preserving your smile. At Total Dental Arts, Dr. Kourosh and his team provide professional, pain-free root canal therapy to residents of Burke, VA and the surrounding areas. We focus on delivering quick, effective treatments to address infections and help you maintain your natural teeth.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to treat infections or damage to the pulp (the soft inner tissue) of a tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and when bacteria invade it due to a cavity, crack, or trauma, the infection can lead to pain and further complications. The root canal procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the tooth, and sealing it to prevent future infections. At Total Dental Arts, we use advanced dental technologies to make the procedure as comfortable and efficient as possible for our patients in Burke.
For optimal oral health, it is essential to maintain good daily hygiene practices and schedule regular dental exams. By visiting your dentist at least once a year for professional cleanings and dental x-rays, you can catch potential problems before they become more serious.
When Do You Need a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy becomes necessary when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or damaged. The infection can cause severe pain and even affect other parts of your body if left untreated. Some common signs that you may need a root canal include:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or touching the tooth
- Pain that radiates to the jaw or face
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
- Pimple-like bumps on the gums
- A bad taste or smell in your mouth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the stimulus is removed
- A loose or discolored tooth
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact a dental professional as soon as possible. Delaying treatment could result in the need for a more invasive procedure or even tooth loss.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy in Burke, VA
Choosing root canal therapy over tooth extraction has several benefits. First and foremost, root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth. Tooth loss can lead to other dental issues, such as misalignment and bone loss in the jaw. By preserving your tooth, you maintain proper function and prevent these problems from occurring.
Additionally, Dr. Kourosh uses state-of-the-art equipment like Element Connect and Endolift to ensure precise and effective treatment during root canal procedures. Our advanced technology helps us provide you with a more accurate diagnosis and a quicker, more comfortable experience.
What to Expect Before & During Your Root Canal Procedure
Before performing a root canal, Dr. Kourosh will conduct a comprehensive examination, which may include taking x-rays of the affected tooth. This step helps to assess the extent of the infection and determine the best treatment approach.
On the day of your root canal procedure, we will numb the area around the infected tooth with local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free. Dr. Kourosh will then create a small access hole in the tooth to remove the infected pulp. The tooth’s canals will be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a special material to seal the area. Once the root canal is complete, the tooth will be sealed with a temporary filling, and we will schedule an appointment for a permanent dental crown.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
After a root canal, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, especially in the first 24 hours. However, this pain is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol or Advil. If you experience significant pain or swelling, be sure to contact us right away.
We may prescribe antibiotics following your procedure to prevent infection and help the healing process. It’s crucial to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if you begin feeling better, to avoid complications.
While healing, it’s best to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent crown is placed. The tooth may be more vulnerable to cracking or damage without the protective crown in place. For the best results, be sure to attend your follow-up appointments to ensure that your tooth heals properly.
Complications of Root Canal Therapy
Although rare, complications can arise after a root canal procedure. Some potential issues include reinfection, cracks in the tooth, or insufficient healing. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions is essential to minimize these risks. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as pain that worsens after the procedure or signs of infection, contact us promptly.
In some cases, if the infection does not clear up or the tooth is too damaged, additional treatments may be necessary. However, these occurrences are rare, and most patients heal successfully after root canal therapy.
Contact Total Dental Arts for Root Canal Therapy
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a tooth infection or are in need of a root canal, contact Total Dental Arts today at (703) 890-3200 to schedule your consultation. Dr. Kourosh and our dedicated team will evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment plan for your oral health. We are committed to providing pain-free, effective care for all of our patients in Burke and the surrounding areas.