If you notice a nagging pain in a tooth, this is not something you should just ignore. Pain is your mouth’s way of telling you that something is amiss. Since dental problems won’t go away by themselves, you must visit your Woodbridge, VA dentist, Dr. Charles Sours, for an evaluation. You may need a root canal.

What is a Root Canal?

Your tooth is made up of several layers. If a cavity grows, it can reach the soft inner layer called the pulp, causing inflammation and infection. If decay reaches the pulp, you will feel pain in the tooth that will not go away without a root canal. You may also notice tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot and cold foods or beverages.

A root canal is a dental procedure where your dentist removes the soft pulp tissue that is infected. The hollow tooth canals are then disinfected and filled. In some cases, you may need antibiotics to get rid of the infection fully. Finally, your tooth is covered with a custom-made dental crown. The crown strengthens the tooth structure that becomes compromised when the pulp is removed. It also helps to prevent bacteria from reaching the tooth again.

How Do You Know If You Need A Root Canal in Woodbridge, VA?

Root canals are needed for severely decayed teeth, but they can also be used in other circumstances. If you have an injured or deeply cracked tooth, you may need a root canal.

Many patients worry about needing a root canal because they are worried that the procedure will be painful. In reality, a root canal can put a stop to your pain and even save your tooth. If your tooth is left untreated, you risk losing it, and the infection could even spread to other parts of the body.

Contact Us

Don’t delay treatment! If you think you may need a root canal in Woodbridge, VA, Dr. Sours can help. Call (703) 491-2131 to book your appointment today.