Root Canal Therapy
When the soft tissue (the pulp) inside the teeth get infected or inflamed, root canal therapy at All Pro Dental Care can bring the mouth back to a healthy state. Fairfax, VA and Merrifield area residents can trust our dentists to provide skilled treatment using gentle dental techniques.
Root Canal Therapy Q & A
What Is the Purpose of a Root Canal?
The purpose of a root canal is for the preservation of a damaged tooth. One of the innermost layers of the tooth, the pulp, is filled with soft tissues that include blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. When serious decay, a tooth crack, or trauma to the tooth occurs, the pulp can quickly become painfully infected and inflamed. The root canal will correct this damage while keeping the healthy part of the tooth fully intact.
What Are the Signs That a Root Canal May Be Needed?
There are a number of different signs that root canal therapy may be needed. Perhaps the most obvious sign for many people -- and the sign that first leads most people to seek treatment -- is severe tooth pain. The pain may happen only while putting pressure on the tooth, such as chewing, or it may be nearly constant. Some people experience a throbbing feeling in their mouth as well. It is also common to have increased sensitivity to very cold or very hot foods. While it doesn't happen in every case, some people do experience some degree of swelling around the damaged tooth. Occasionally, a raised area develops around the tooth, usually on the gum line or just beneath it. This abscess is often redder than the natural gum tissue and is often painful until it is treated with root canal therapy.
How Many Visits Does Root Canal Therapy Require?
Root canal therapy requires either one or two visits in the majority of patients. Teeth with more serious damage are more likely to require two visits. During the root canal therapy, the damaged pulp will be removed. The area that the pulp vacated is then cleaned and sealed. After that, the dentist will fully restore the tooth using a crown that is custom made for the tooth.
