Are you experiencing severe tooth pain or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures? You may need root canal therapy. Root canal therapy, often simply called a root canal, is a dental procedure that treats infection at the center of a tooth. It can save a tooth that is severely infected or decayed, preventing the need for extraction. Dr. Aaron Marks at Marks Family Dentistry in Mechanicsville, VA, is highly experienced in this treatment, ensuring a comfortable and successful experience for all patients.
Why Should I Get Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is essential when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed, often due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. Leaving this untreated can cause severe pain or lead to an abscess. Root canal therapy alleviates pain, saves your natural tooth, and stops the spread of infection. Dr. Marks is experienced in providing this treatment, ensuring a smooth process and successful outcome.
Did you know…
Your tooth is more likely to break after a root canal, so a crown is often necessary.
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The Benefits Of Root Canal Therapy
Pain Relief
One of the significant benefits of root canal therapy is immediate pain relief. The procedure removes the infected pulp, which is the source of the pain. Dr. Marks uses modern techniques and local anesthesia to ensure a virtually painless procedure, providing relief from the severe discomfort caused by tooth infection or decay.
Save Your Natural Tooth
Root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth, preventing the need for a dental implant or bridge. Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain your natural smile and chewing function. Dr. Marks is committed to helping patients maintain their natural teeth for as long as possible.
Prevents Spread of Infection
Untreated tooth infections can spread to surrounding teeth and even to the rest of the body, causing more severe health problems. Root canal therapy stops the infection in its tracks, preventing further damage. Dr. Marks prioritizes patient health, ensuring all infection is thoroughly removed during the procedure.
The Root Canal Therapy Treatment Process
Examination and X-rays
The first step in root canal therapy is a thorough examination of the affected tooth and an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection. Dr. Marks will carefully assess your condition to ensure root canal therapy is the appropriate treatment.
Anesthesia and Pulp Removal
Dr. Marks will administer local anesthesia to numb the area and ensure a comfortable procedure. He will then create an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp. Using specialized instruments, he will carefully remove the pulp and clean the inside of the tooth.
Filling and Sealing
After the tooth is cleaned, Dr. Marks will fill the root canal with a biocompatible material and seal it with a temporary filling. This step concludes the root canal therapy procedure, leaving your tooth pain-free and healthy.
Before & Afters
A smile is worth 1,000 words.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a root canal procedure take?
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A root canal procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. In some cases, it may require multiple visits, especially if there is a significant infection that needs time to heal before the tooth can be sealed.
