Alexandria, VA
Endodontics
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry dedicated to saving teeth by treating problems inside the tooth. It focuses on the health of the tooth's pulp and roots, essential to your smile's overall strength and function. Endodontics could be the key to relieving discomfort and preserving your natural teeth if you are experiencing tooth pain or an infection.
Endodontic treatment is more than just saving a tooth—it is about protecting one's oral health and well-being. Endodontics can alleviate pain, improve function, prevent further complications, and preserve the natural tooth structure by addressing the source of infection or damage. Preserving natural teeth also has long-term benefits. Natural teeth help maintain the alignment of the patient's smile, support proper chewing and speaking, and prevent bone loss in the jaw. When a tooth is lost, it can lead to shifting teeth and changes in the bite, which may require more extensive treatment.
Signs Endodontics Is Necessary
The extent of many patients' knowledge regarding if there is a problem with a tooth is if there is discoloration or pain. Therefore, they may not know when the dentist may suggest endodontics as a solution. Nevertheless, the more common signs include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling around the gums, or discomfort when chewing. One might also notice a small bump on the gums near the affected tooth, which could indicate an abscess. If one experiences any of these symptoms, seeking care promptly can save the natural tooth and prevent further, often more extensive, problems.
Root Canal Treatment
Many patients feel anxious when they learn they need a root canal. Rest assured that modern root canals are straightforward procedures. During a root canal, the dental team relieves tooth pain by removing infected tissue. Root canal procedures also involve the application of numbing medication to prevent patient discomfort.
Below the enamel and dentin, there is pulp at the center of a tooth. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes injured or infected, the patient may experience swelling, infection, and pain. Even when outwardly apparent symptoms are not present, bacteria within the root canal may cause decay and damage to the jawbone. In many cases, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.
A root canal can remove the infected or inflamed pulp to prevent further issues. Various situations can call for a root canal, such as repeated dental work on the same tooth, cracks or chips, deep cavities, or a tooth injury. Signs that a patient may need root canal treatment include bumps along the gums, darkening gums, severe pain or sensitivity while biting or chewing, and swollen or tender gums. People should be aware that the signs of root canal infection or injury are not always obvious and that a thorough examination may be necessary for diagnosis.
Root Canal Treatment Benefits
The goal of root canal treatment is to save and preserve the natural tooth. One of the biggest benefits of root canals is getting rid of pain and infection in the mouth. Additional benefits include:
Improved Appearance
After the root canal treatment, the patient will receive a crown or filling that restores their tooth's aesthetic appearance.
Reducing Further Decay
Removal of the infected dental pulp prevents the bacteria from spreading and damaging the surrounding teeth.
Restored Function
Root canals restore a tooth's health to function like any other tooth, allowing the tooth to last a lifetime with proper care.
Saving The Natural Tooth
Nothing can replace the look and function of a natural tooth, which is why saving your natural teeth is always our highest priority.
Root Canal FAQs
What Is A Root Canal?
Root canals can remove infected or inflamed pulp. Pulp is a soft tissue that helps keep the tooth anchored within the mouth. It supplies blood flow and connects the tooth to nerve endings. During a root canal, a dental provider cleans out the pulp and fills the tooth. They also place a crown on the tooth to protect it from future damage.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Treatment begins with an X-ray. Our dental team examines the patient's mouth and creates a treatment plan. They will also provide a numbing medication to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. The dental team places a dental shield around the tooth. This structure protects the tooth and prevents bacteria from spreading to other parts of the mouth. Once the shield is in place, one of our doctors drills into the top of the tooth.
We then remove decayed enamel and dentin by exposing the infected pulp and cleaning out the inside of the tooth. During this stage of treatment, the dentist may use an antibiotic solution to kill bacteria. Then they fill and seal the tooth. Root canals also include a crown procedure. Each crown is custom-fitted and designed to match the patient's natural teeth. Crowns restore the appearance of a damaged tooth and improve oral function.
Root canals are an option for most patients, but some patients might receive improved results with a different procedure. If the patient's tooth is severely damaged, an extraction may be necessary. In rare cases, root canals can also trigger complications like a dental abscess. Rest assured that these complications are rare.
What Are Some Alternatives To A Root Canal?
Root canals are a good option for most patients since they preserve the natural tooth. Patients who keep their natural teeth may avoid future dental problems. Preserving the teeth prevents jawbone loss, spacing issues, and jaw misalignment.
However, a root canal is not right for everyone. If the tooth becomes severely damaged, our doctors may opt for extraction instead. During an extraction, they will remove the entire tooth. He or she can then prepare a false tooth to fill the gap.
Are Root Canals Painful?
Modern root canals use numbing medications to prevent discomfort. Some patients may experience soreness after their root canal. However, these side effects usually disappear within a few days.
How Much Do Root Canals Cost?
Costs can vary depending on insurance coverage. As a rule, root canals carry a higher price tag than extraction. However, root canals preserve the tooth and may help prevent the need for future dental care. Our office team can help you compare treatment costs.
Can Children Receive A Root Canal?
Adults and children can receive root canals for permanent teeth. But if a child develops severe decay or inflammation within a baby tooth, the dental provider may recommend an extraction. Extraction may be the right option if the child will soon lose the affected tooth.
In some cases, however, the provider may opt to perform a baby root canal. These procedures are similar to an adult root canal. Baby root canals preserve the tooth while preventing the infection from spreading.
How Long Does it Take To Get A Root Canal?
This varies on a case-by-case basis. However, most patients can expect one or two 90-minute appointments.
How Can I Prevent Root Canal Treatment?
As root canals are a result of severely decayed or damaged teeth, it is important to exercise basic oral hygiene habits to prevent even a small cavity. Cavities are the earliest sign of decay, and going without treatment allows this decay to develop and reach the tooth's roots. It is important to practice good oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly, and avoid foods and beverages that cause cavities.