Find out why getting a root canal is really nothing to worry about.

Has your Woodbridge dentist Dr. Charles L. Sours, Jr. told you that you need a root canal? Have you heard stories from someone you know about root canal therapy? Are you nervous about your upcoming procedure? You shouldn’t be! It’s important that you understand your upcoming painless dental treatment and why it’s the best option for a healthy smile. Knowing more about your procedure can reduce your anxiety about it.

So, what are root canals?

Root canals are small canals in the roots of the tooth. This part is not visible, as it lies under the gums. The root canal contains the dental pulp, the inside part of the tooth that also contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. The pulp is the feeling part of the tooth responsible for sensing pain and temperature changes.

Why do I need a root canal?

This endodontic treatment is often recommended by your Woodbridge dentist Dr. Sours if you are dealing with severe tooth decay that has already reached the inside of the tooth or if you’ve had a direct injury to the tooth that has affected the health of the dental pulp. If the pulp is infected or inflamed, the only way to properly treat the tooth and save it is to remove the dying tissue and to clean the inside of the tooth to remove infection. Not getting a root canal could cause you to lose that tooth in the future.

Are root canals painful?

This is one of the most common questions we hear from our patients and we are happy to report that a root canal isn’t the least bit painful. In fact, so many patients come into our Woodbridge office complaining of severe dental pain due to an infected tooth and the purpose of this procedure is to alleviate that pain. Some people even experience immediate relief after their root canal treatment. And of course your procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel a thing. Getting a root canal is really no more invasive than getting a dental filling.

Have questions about your upcoming root canal? Dealing with dental pain? Then it’s time you called our Woodbridge, VA dental office today. Don’t let dental issues cause even bigger problems for your smile in the long run.