Root Canal & Endodontics in Virginia Beach, VA

Is a Root Canal an Endodontic Treatment?

Yes, endodontic is the combination of two Greek words meaning “inside” and “tooth”. Dentists perform root canals when the tissue inside a tooth, called the pulp, is damaged or diseased, in an attempt to save the tooth.

How Would I Know if I Need a Dental Root Canal?

Only a dentist can tell you after an examination and a review of your x-rays if you are going to need a root canal. Typical signs that you need endodontic treatment include:

• Persistent, often severe, tooth pain
• Swelling in the gum near the tooth
• Tooth discoloration
• Hot or cold sensitivity
• Tooth pain that keeps you awake at night

Where Can I Find a Root Canal Dentist?

Family and general dentists routinely perform root canals for their patients. If you have a complicated issue, our dentist will refer you to a local endodontist for the procedure. If you believe that you may need endodontic treatment, call our office for an appointment.

Is the Root Canal Procedure Complicated?

A root canal sounds like a major, complicated procedure; however, the whole procedure only takes about an hour. When dentists perform root canals, they remove any decay and infection in the pulp of the tooth, which they access through a small hole that is filled after the procedure. Often, the hole is drilled in the back of the tooth so the filling won’t show. Dentists then clean out the canals, disinfect and shape them. Finally, a dentist will fill the canal with a special rubbery material. Typically, the tooth is weaker after the procedure so dentists recommend a root canal crown.

Contrary to what you may have heard, people usually don’t experience pain during a root canal. Call us for an appointment if you would like one of our skilled dentists to perform your procedure.

What is the Average Root Canal Cost?

There is no average cost as patients come in with various amounts of damage to their tooth. It generally costs more for molar root canals and root canals performed by an endodontist. Many dental insurance plans cover at least some of the cost. Contact our office for an examination by our dentist. You will receive an estimate of your cost afterwards.

What are the Types of Root Canals Available?

Molar root canals are the most common procedures, although there are front tooth root canals and baby root canals, which are either pediatric pulpotomies or pulpectomies. If a dental root canal treatment fails, you may need an apicoectomy procedure, which seals the root after a dentist removes the tip of it.

What is the Proper Aftercare Procedure?

Our dentist will provide you with a list of instructions for care after the procedure. You may receive a prescription for antibiotics or pain medication. Since you should only experience minimal pain for three or for days, our dentist may recommend an OTC pain reliever instead. If you have decided on a crown for the final restoration, you will have a follow-up visit with our dentist. If you are experiencing tooth pain, call our office to schedule your appointment.