Root Canal Treatment: The Symptoms and the Procedure

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and shaping the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it.

Root canal treatment is usually recommended when the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes damaged or infected. This can happen due to deep decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, or repeated dental procedures. If the pulp is damaged, it can become infected and cause pain, swelling, and tenderness. Left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to serious health problems, including abscesses, bone loss, and even spreading the infection to other parts of the body.

Symptoms You Need to Know

Root canal treatment is typically performed by a dentist or endodontist, a specialist who treats conditions of the tooth’s pulp. The procedure is usually done in one or two visits, and it usually takes about an hour to complete. Symptoms that you may need a root canal include:

• Severe toothache that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums
• Darkening of the tooth
• Pus coming from the gum line

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a dentist or endodontist as soon as possible. If the tooth is not treated, the infection can spread and lead to serious health problems, such as bone loss, tissue damage, and even death.

The Treatment

During the procedure, the dentist will first numb the tooth and the surrounding area with local anesthesia. Next, a small hole will be drilled into the tooth to access the pulp. The dentist will then remove the damaged or infected pulp, clean and shape the inside of the tooth, and finally fill and seal the tooth.

After root canal treatment, the tooth will be weaker than it was before and will require a crown or other type of restoration to protect it. Most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime with proper care.

If you have a damaged or infected tooth, root canal treatment can save your tooth and reduce your risk of serious health problems. The procedure is usually quick and relatively painless, allowing you to keep your natural tooth.

The Quality Care You Deserve

When it comes to your oral health, there’s no such thing as being too cautious. After all, your mouth is home to some of the most sensitive tissues in your body. That’s why it’s important to seek professional help when you think you may need a root canal. Dr. Brian G. Cochran and the team at Cochran Family Dental are experts in root canal treatment.

Root canal treatment is a fairly common procedure, and there’s no need to be anxious about it. However, after your root canal treatment, it’s important to take good care of your tooth. You should brush and floss regularly and see us for regular check-ups. With proper care, your tooth will last a lifetime.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to get help for your toothache. Call Dr. Brian G. Cochran and Cochran Family Dental today at 703-771-9034 or email us using the contact form on this page to schedule an appointment. We serve residents in Leesburg, Ashburn, Purcellville, Potomac Falls, Lansdowne, Sterling, Hamilton, and the surrounding Virginia communities.