Root Canal Therapy

Do you need a root canal in Richmond? In the hands of your experienced, caring dentist at VL Dental, endodontic treatment has never been more comfortable. It’s often the last option before extraction of the tooth is necessary, so don’t delay therapy for a root canal.

Signs You Need Root Canal Therapy

If you suspect you or a loved one need a root canal, don’t put off getting in touch with your dentist. Infection in the mouth can quickly spread to other parts of the body -- and the root canal is often the last option before extraction of the tooth is necessary.

Some of the signs you may need a root canal include…

• A tooth that is sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet
• A dark or discolored tooth
• A bad smell coming from the tooth
• A pimple-like bump on the gum below the tooth

Of course, sometimes an infected tooth presents no symptoms at all. Maintain regular visits to the dentist to help catch the signs of decay and infection early.

What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?

To repair significant decay or infection with root canal treatment, your dentist removes all the tissue from the inside of the tooth and then restores its strength with a sturdy filling or dental crown. Root canal therapy is often completed in two visits to the dentist, though sometimes one is enough to heal the infection and restore strength to the tooth.

To perform the root canal, your dentist will…

1. Administer local anesthesia for full relaxation
2. Access the inside of the tooth through a small hole (on the back side of front teeth, on the chewing surface of back teeth)
3. Clean out the interior of the tooth using special hand tools
4. Measure and reshape the root canals
5. Fill the tooth with a biocompatible material known as gutta percha
6. Apply a temporary or permanent filling and/or crown
7. If a second visit is needed, apply the permanent crown in a follow-up appointment

If your root canal is completed over two visits to the dentist, you will wear a temporary filling in the time between. Take care with this restoration, as it was not made to last forever -- and it is more vulnerable to breaking under excessive force or pressure. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the temporary filling. If you do experience a break or other issue, contact your dentist immediately.

Caring for Your Tooth After Root Canal Therapy

Endodontic treatment is oral surgery, and you will experience the related side effects -- like soreness, swelling, bleeding, and discomfort -- in the days after. Take your pain medication as prescribed for comfort, and follow your dentist’s instructions carefully. Brush and floss your teeth as usual.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Do you need endodontic therapy? An infected tooth very rarely heals on its own -- don’t put off the necessary treatment. Your dentist in Richmond provides comfortable, effective treatment for root canals. Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment today!