Root Canals in Northern Virginia

Lake Ridge Smiles performs root canal treatment with the highest level of expertise.

When the inside of a tooth (pulp) becomes inflamed or infected, severe tooth pain or an abscess can occur. A root canal is a procedure that removes infected tissue from the central part of the tooth and its roots, replacing it with a sterile root filling material.

A cavity is the result of superficial decay of the enamel of the tooth. Left long enough, this decay can burrow into the deeper reaches of the tooth, causing extensive damage to tooth structure. When the damage goes beyond what can be treated with a filling, dentists can perform a root canal (or endodontics), preserving the tooth and retaining its original integrity; thereby, saving a tooth that in the past would have to have been pulled.

Emergency Dentist for Root Canals in Woodbridge

A root canal is the preferred alternative to an extraction when a tooth is badly damaged or diseased. Some people opt for budget extractions but that may not be the best long term option. If you take care of these situations correctly from the start, you can preserve your smile and chew your food comfortably throughout your life.

Many people are apprehensive about having root canals because they are afraid of potential pain. This is understandable, but when you choose Lake Ridge Smiles, you do not have to be concerned about discomfort when you are in the chair.

If it is determined that a root canal is necessary:

• If a patient is feeling pain or experiences infection, medications and antibiotics are prescribed
• The treatment area is numbed
• The diseased root will be carefully removed, and the opening will be irrigated.
• A filling will seal the opening, and you will get a temporary crown.
• Subsequently, a permanent crown will be put in place, and the root canal process will be finalized.

A root canal is performed in an effort to save your tooth. Sometimes, however, the damage is too deep or the enamel is too frail to withstand the procedure. These factors can lead to loss of the tooth. If root canal is not the right treatment for you, you can talk to the dentist about an extraction instead. This often involves placing an implant, partial, bridge or denture after the extraction to replace the damaged teeth.

To learn more about how our top ranked dentists can repair your smile, please contact Lake Ridge Smiles today.