Save your tooth and get instant pain relief with Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is standard, painless, and a little more extensive to complete than a simple filling (like a “deep clean” for your tooth). Additionally, this treatment may be the only way to “save” a badly decayed or infected tooth. It also provides immediate relief from the discomfort and other distressing symptoms that often arise with decay and other forms of deep trauma to the natural tooth structure.
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. It has a reputation of being undesirable and painful. But when done properly it is actually painless. Every tooth in your mouth is composed of a crown and a root. When a cavity or bacteria penetrates the tooth, the root and its nerves become irritated. As a result, the bacteria within the pulp cavity needs to be removed and cleaned in order to restore the tooth to its healthy state. Following the procedure, the tooth is fragile and consequently is restored with the natural crown for a lifetime of durability. Root canals have a success rate of 95% or greater. Most root canal are diagnosed by patients’ sensitivities to a specific tooth. Be sure to consult your dentist any symptoms or discomfort occur.
When you turn to Abel, Phan, & Associates in Sterling, Virginia for treatment, there is also peace of mind. Drs Anna Abel and Chuong Phan have extensive training and experience in advanced dental treatments, including non-surgical and surgical endodontic treatments and other oral surgeries. As an endodontic treatment to resolve trauma to the inner part of the tooth (“endo” refers to “inside” and “odont” to “tooth”), root canal therapy is non-surgical. So, it can be completed quickly within one or two visits to our office.
Non-surgical root canal treatment also has a very high success rate (90%-plus). In addition to this exceptional track record as a well-established dental treatment and alternative to invasive extractions, Drs Abel and Phan use exacting techniques and technologies to support the lasting health of your treated tooth. For instance, they have invested in apex locators. This type of electronic instrument is used to aid in planning by locating and measuring the length of the damaged root canal that is to be treated. This understanding of the troublesome canal plays a critical role in the likelihood of successful treatment and the sustained health and functionality of the treated tooth.
What to expect
Much like other treatments and services at our offices, root canal treatment and its alternatives start with an exam at Abel, Phan, & Associates. You may be a good candidate for root canal therapy if the inner “nervy” living tissue of the tooth (pulp) is damaged by decay, infection, or other trauma. More conservative options include dental restorations such as tooth-colored fillings, inlays, onlays, and full-coverage porcelain crowns. These tooth-preserving treatments are a preferred alternative to extraction. Generally, the process of replacing a tooth is more costly, time-consuming, and invasive than restorative options to rebuild portions of the natural tooth. If we find that extraction is the best procedure for you, we will promptly discuss tooth replacement such as dental implant-supported bridges and dentures. Prompt tooth replacement prevents the destructive loss of bone in the jaw.
The tooth to be treated with root canal therapy is precisely numbed. So, you won’t feel anything throughout the procedure. We are also happy to explain options to keep you calm and relaxed if you are nervous about upcoming treatment. The innermost part of the tooth is then accessed through the top of the tooth. After the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sterilized, your dentist places a temporary or permanent filling to protect the prepared tooth. Medications may also be taken to support healing should you have an active infection. If a second appointment is necessary, a permanent filling material is applied to prevent reinfection. Typically, dental crowns are the “finishing touch” following root canal treatment to restore the structure and appearance of the treated tooth.
With proper care at home and regular visits to our office, root canal-treated teeth remain healthy and strong for life! Contact us today at (571) 450-9848 to schedule your appointment. Do not wait for problems to arise or discomfort to get worse to reach out to Abel, Phan, & Associates.
Dr. Anna Abel
Dr. Chuong Phan