Do you have sensitive teeth, ongoing tooth pain, or a tooth changing color in Virginia Beach, VA? At Coastal General Dentistry, our dental team can treat these signs of infection with a root canal procedure. A root canal is necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed. You might get an infection if you have a bad cavity, have had a lot of dental work done, or have a cracked or chipped tooth.
Trauma to the tooth can also damage the pulp, even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. Dr. Tyler Quinn uses diagnostic tools to decide if you need a root canal. We use X-rays and other imaging tools to check on the condition of the tooth. Our goal is to save it, restore its function, and protect the tooth for the long term.
Infected teeth often cause pain, sensitivity when chewing, and even tooth discoloration. If you notice any of these symptoms, please get in touch with our dental office. Dr. Quinn will remove the infection and clean the inside of the tooth with a root canal in Virginia Beach, VA. This procedure gets rid of the infected stuff inside the tooth, like nerves, blood vessels, and tissue.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal
Infections can cause a lot of pain, so toothaches often signal a problem. Ignoring this pain can make things worse. Our skilled dentists quickly diagnose and treat these issues to save your tooth and stop the pain. You might need a root canal if you experience:
- A severe toothache that won’t go away
- Long-lasting sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- A cracked tooth with stains
- Swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums
Sometimes, there might not be any symptoms, which is why regular dental check-ups are so important. Without treatment, the infection can spread and cause an abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket at the end of the tooth’s root. It creates severe pain, swelling, and even bone loss around the root.
At our Virginia Beach dental office, we emphasize how important it is to start treatment early. We educate our patients on the signs and symptoms of dental infections. Treating these issues early can prevent complications and help save your teeth.
Root Canal Treatment in Virginia Beach, VA
Dr. Quinn, our skilled endodontist, can repair and save a decayed or infected tooth with a root canal treatment. In just one visit, he removes the nerve, infected pulp, and any decay inside the tooth. Once the pulp is infected, it can cause serious pain.
First, our team numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic. We can also use dental sedation for an anxiety-free experience. Then, Dr. Quinn makes a small hole in the back of the tooth to reach the inner chamber.
Using special tools, he removes the infected pulp and cleans the inner chamber and root canal. Afterward, he fills the chamber with gutta-percha, a material that seals the space. He then applies a sealant and a permanent filling over the opening.
For a natural look, we use composite or porcelain fillings to match the color of your teeth. Dr. Quinn may also recommend a dental crown to support the tooth’s structure long-term. Crowns are porcelain caps that blend with your natural tooth color.
Finally, Dr. Quinn will give you instructions for post-treatment care at home. This might include taking over-the-counter pain relievers and avoiding hard food, chewy foods, and sugary drinks to help your tooth heal.
Post-Procedure Care
Taking care of yourself after a root canal is important. Don’t worry, our dentists will fill you in on all the details after the procedure. For now, you can follow these general steps to help ensure a smooth recovery:
- It’s normal to feel some discomfort after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this. Dr. Quinn might also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. Make sure to take any prescribed medications as directed.
- Good oral hygiene is important. Brush and floss your teeth regularly, but pay extra attention to the treated tooth and the area around it. Be gentile around that area.
- Avoid chewing on the treated side until the tooth is fully healed. Stay away from hard foods to prevent damage to the temporary filling or the tooth itself.
Our team might set up a follow-up visit to see how you’re healing. These check-ins are important to make sure everything is going well, and we can tweak things if needed.
Root Canal Therapy FAQs
Learn more about root canals as we tackle some common questions.
Is the Root Canal Procedure Painful?
No, a root canal is not painful. In fact, it helps relieve the pain you’re already feeling from a damaged or infected tooth. Thanks to modern dental care, root canals are much more comfortable than they used to be. Our endodontist will use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. If you prefer, we can also use dental sedation.
Will Dental Insurance Cover the Cost of my Root Canal Procedure?
It depends on your specific insurance policy. Most dental plans cover at least part of the cost of a root canal. We suggest reviewing your insurance policy or contacting your provider to understand your coverage. You can also call our office, and our team will help you figure out your coverage and discuss financing options.
Do I Need a Crown After my Root Canal?
Some patients may need both a filling and a crown after their root canal. If our endodontist removes a lot of enamel from the affected tooth, we may suggest a dental crown. The crown will cap the treated tooth, protecting it from further damage. Crowns also help create a more even bite and add strength.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Root Canal Treatment?
Recovery from a root canal usually takes about a week or less. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to help you stay comfortable during healing. Please contact our office if you experience severe pain or discomfort that lasts more than a week. We’re here to help with any concerns during your recovery.
How Can I Tell If My Toothache is Serious Enough to Need A Root Canal Versus A Regular Filling?
If your teeth have a little sensitivity, it might just mean you’ve got a small cavity that needs a filling. But watch out for ongoing throbbing pain, especially at night. That could be a sign you need a root canal.
If your teeth stay sensitive to hot and cold for minutes or hurt when you bite down, that’s not a good sign either. And don’t ignore darkening teeth or swollen gums around the sore tooth. Our team in Virginia Beach uses digital imaging and thermal tests to get to the bottom of things. It’s always better to check it out sooner than to wait until the pain becomes too much to handle.
Can I Drive Myself Home After A Root Canal If I Choose Sedation?
For mild nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you can drive yourself home. However, if you opt for oral conscious sedation, you’ll need a ride home because it causes drowsiness. We’ll review all sedation options during your consultation and help you plan accordingly. Most patients just get local anesthesia and have no restrictions post-procedure.
Why Might My Tooth Still Hurt A Few Days After The Root Canal, And When Should I Call You?
It’s pretty normal to feel a bit tender when chewing or have mild sensitivity for 3-5 days as the surrounding ligaments heal. Give us a call right away if you notice anything unusual, like:
Severe pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter meds
- Any swelling inside or outside your mouth
- The original symptoms coming back
- The temporary filling falling out
These could be signs of complications that might need quick attention.
How Long Will My Treated Tooth Last?
With a proper final restoration (usually a crown) and good oral hygiene, root canal teeth often last a lifetime. The key is protecting the now-brittle tooth from fractures. That’s why we strongly recommend crowns for back teeth.
Patients should avoid chewing ice, hard candy and maintain regular cleanings. Our Virginia Beach office will share personalized tips to keep your teeth healthy for the long run.
Stop Tooth Pain Today
Are you noticing changes in your oral health? Do you think you may have an infected tooth? Contact Coastal General Dentistry for endodontics care and other common dental procedures at 757-216-9914. Dr. Tyler Quinn can relieve your pain and save your tooth.
You may also schedule a dental appointment with our dental team online. If you have further questions about root canal treatment, please let us know, and we will be happy to help.