Arlington Root Canal Treatments

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal procedure, also known as endodontic treatment, is a method used by dentists to repair a damaged or infected tooth. During Root Canal Treatments, the dentist creates a small opening to access the tooth’s interior, allowing them to reach the afflicted blood vessels or infected pulp. The dentist then carefully cleans and disinfects the root canals, removing any bacteria or infected tissue. Once the area is thoroughly cleaned, the root canals are filled with a special medication that prevents reinfection, and the tooth is sealed with a filling. This procedure restores the tooth to its original function, ensuring that it remains healthy and strong.

When Is a Root Canal Necessary?

A root canal is often required when the tooth’s pulp becomes infected due to decay or injury. Root Canal Treatments are necessary in these cases to prevent further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues. Without treatment, the infection can spread, leading to more severe dental issues. The most common reasons for Root Canal Treatments include:

Severe Tooth Decay

When the outer layer of your tooth decays, it can lead to an infection in the pulp chamber. This infection often causes significant pain and discomfort, making Root Canal Treatments essential to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.

Gum Disease

If gum disease is not treated early, it can cause inflammation that spreads to the surrounding bone and soft tissues. Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, infection, or loss of bone density. Root Canal Treatments can address the infection and help avoid the need for tooth extraction, preserving your natural smile.

Trauma to the Teeth

Accidents and injuries can cause trauma to your teeth, leading to cracks, chips, or other damage. In such cases, Root Canal Treatments may be necessary to repair the damage and prevent further complications. Whether from sports injuries, falls, or other accidents, our dentists in Arlington, VA, are experienced in providing the care needed to restore your teeth.

Grinding Teeth

Grinding your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism, can cause significant wear and tear on your teeth. Over time, this can lead to toothaches, sensitivity, and other symptoms that may require dental treatment. If the damage is severe, Root Canal Treatments may be recommended to alleviate these symptoms and restore the affected teeth.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatments

Root Canal Treatments offer numerous benefits, including pain relief, preservation of your natural tooth, and prevention of further infection. By opting for this procedure, you can avoid the need for more invasive treatments, such as tooth extraction and replacement. Additionally, Root Canal Treatments help maintain the integrity of your smile by allowing you to keep your natural tooth, which is always preferable to artificial replacements.

What to Expect During Your Root Canal Treatment

At Advance Dental Care Center, our dentists ensure that your Root Canal Treatments are as comfortable and stress-free as possible. The procedure typically begins with a local anesthetic to numb the area, ensuring that you feel no pain during the treatment. The dentist will then carefully remove the infected tissue, clean the root canals, and fill them with a biocompatible material. Finally, the tooth is sealed with a filling, and in some cases, a crown may be placed to provide additional protection and strength.