When Is a Root Canal Needed?
A root canal is a highly effective treatment used to relieve tooth pain and save a severely infected or damaged tooth. When bacteria reach the inner pulp of the tooth, it can cause significant discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity that will not go away on its own.
At Lumen Dental, we provide gentle, modern root canal treatment designed to eliminate infection, relieve pain, and restore your tooth so you can return to normal function comfortably.
A tooth infection is a dental emergency that requires prompt care to relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection.
Book OnlineWithout catching the problem soon enough or if you avoid a root canal, you could end up losing the tooth and/or having a broader infection throughout your mouth. These problems would actually result in more extensive treatment than a root canal requires, for example an implant to replace the now lost tooth.
SIGNS YOU MAY NEED A ROOT CANAL
You may need a root canal if you experience:
- Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity
- Swelling or tenderness around the gums
- Darkening of the tooth
- Pain when chewing or biting
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
These symptoms may indicate an infection inside the tooth and should be evaluated as soon as possible.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Before performing a root canal, we conduct a thorough examination to check whether you have a tooth infection or if the issue lies elsewhere.
Root canal treatment is designed to be comfortable and effective. During the procedure:
- The infected pulp is carefully removed
- The inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected
- The tooth is sealed to prevent further infection
Root canal treatment is often followed by a dental crown to restore strength and function, and may help prevent the need for more extensive procedures such as dental implants.
The treatment and number of visits can vary slightly based on the severity of your infection.
We proudly provide root canal treatment for patients in Tysons Corner and nearby areas, including Vienna, VA, McLean, VA, and Falls Church, VA.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or signs of infection, contact our office today to schedule an evaluation and get relief with prompt root canal treatment.