Root Canal Therapy
Need a Dentist Now? Contact Our Arlington Office
Tooth pain can't wait. If you're experiencing symptoms of a root canal infection or a dental emergency of any kind, our dentists will work to see you as soon as possible. Get the care you need quickly by contacting us online or calling:
What Is a Root Canal Infection?
A root canal infection happens when bacteria reach the inner chamber of the tooth, either through untreated dental decay or trauma that results in a crack or fracture of a tooth. When bacteria reach the inner tooth, it infects the blood vessels, nerves, and other soft tissue that makes up the soft pulp inside.
Tooth pain is a common symptom of a root canal infection, but other symptoms can accompany or foreshadow a root canal infection. Symptoms can include:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks
- Pain while eating or putting pressure on the tooth
- A small bump on the gums
- A darkened tooth
- Tender and swelling gums
When you notice these symptoms, request a consultation at our Arlington, VA, dental office for prompt attention.
Why Prompt Treatment is Critical The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Treating a root canal infection early can prevent the need for a tooth extraction. The endodontist's goal is to save your natural tooth, and a root canal makes that possible. Tooth extractions can result in more extensive costs for you whether you replace the tooth with a bridge or a dental implant and crown.
Not only can a root canal infection lead to an extraction, but it can also cause other significant oral health issues for nearby teeth and gum tissue. The bacteria can spread to these healthy structures, resulting in infections, dental decay, and gum disease. Left untreated, the infection can enter your bloodstream and travel elsewhere in your body.
One of the most common symptoms of a root canal infection is tooth pain. A root canal can stop the pain at its source. Thanks to local anesthesia, sedation options, and modern dentistry techniques and technology, the procedure is virtually painless. Overall, a root canal is about as uncomfortable as a cavity filling.
Are You in Pain? Request a Consultation
Pain doesn't have to be your new normal. A root canal is a virtually painless treatment that clears bacteria from the infected root canal, providing lasting pain relief.
Our team of board-certified and Ivy League-educated dentists have the tools and technology to safely and effectively treat infected root canals, just like an endodontist. Our compassionate staff, calming amenities, and gentle dentistry techniques can make your dental procedure as routine as a filling.
If you suspect a root canal is infected or are suffering from extreme pain, call Smile Designer in Arlington, VA, to find relief:
(703) 351-7645
"Best dental practice I have ever experienced" 5-Star Reviews From Arlington, VA, Patients
Dr. Kia Cadet
71066041
2023
I recently transitioned to Smile Designer as my primary dental practice, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing! The professionalism and customer-centered attention to care set the bar. I’m looking forward to informing my friends and family about the best dental practice I have ever experienced, from the front office staff to Dr. Han - phenomenal!
View on GoogleHelen Y
71066041
2023
The practitioners and staff are all friendly and professional. Throughout the entirety of my treatment, I felt Dr. Ahn had my best interests at heart. She was patient and listened to my needs and did not rush the ortho treatment. The office is clean, wait times are not very long, and I have never had an issue with billing. Would definitely recommend!
View on GoogleWhy Choose Smile Designer in Arlington?
Award-Winning Dentists With Ivy League Training
Our staff includes a member of the American Board of Periodontology and graduates of the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dentistry. Their top-quality training and commitment to professional excellence means you can trust that your smile is in good hands.
Root Canal Treatment In-Office
Many dental practices have to refer out to a specialist when a patient needs a root canal procedure. Our dentists are fully equipped to provide gentle, effective treatment right here at our Arlington, VA, dental office. Our patients don’t have to wait for a middleman to get involved to receive the care they need.
Early Hours for Your Convenience
Every Friday, our doors open promptly at 7:00am. If you need a dentist fast, we can see you first thing in the morning. We’re also open as late as 6:00pm on Tuesdays to make after-work care convenient. If you need a little more flexibility with scheduling, we’ll do everything we can to accommodate you.
Why Would I Need a Crown After Root Canal Therapy?
In many cases, a dental crown is the best way to protect a tooth from further harm after treatment for a root canal infection. In root canal therapy, the treatment area is most often larger and deeper than what could be restored with a filling. Improper coverage of the tooth can invite the risk of decay and reinfection, which could mean you'd require an extraction down the road.
A dental crown is the best choice because it offers top-to-bottom coverage. It may seem like an unnecessary additional procedure, but think of it like insurance for the continued health of your smile. By protecting the vulnerable tooth, your crown may actually save you time and money on more reparative dentistry down the line. Plus, crowns are partially or fully covered under typical dental insurance plans.
Take a Closer Look at Root Canal Treatment
At Smile Designer, we use rotary dentistry instruments to perform root canal treatment. These tools are more flexible, allowing fast, efficient, and effective treatment of the root canals.
Root Canal Treatment, Step by Step
Once the infection has spread to the pulp chamber, only root canal treatment can prevent the extraction of a tooth.
Find Relief From Your Symptoms And Restore Your Quality of Life
Everyone knows that an excruciating toothache quickly becomes your main focus. You may not be able to manage eating, working, or spending time with family if you’re dealing with pain. Our Arlington dentists are here to help you feel like yourself again.
We use a light touch and conservative methods so treatment isn’t painful and is focused only on the precise areas of the tooth that need attention. If you’re concerned about pain during the procedure, our sedation options can ensure that your experience is comfortable and stress-free.
Let’s get you back to a state of comfort and good oral health. Book an appointment for root canal therapy by contacting us online or calling us in Arlington, VA:
"Truly compassionate treatment" Kind Words From DC-Area Patients
Daniel Sullivan
71066041
2023
Another great session--very professional, truly compassionate treatment -- always with concern for patient's welfare -- minimizes the pain --patient first.
View on GoogleAlise Powell
71066041
2023
friendly staff and excellent patient-care experience! the office is very clean and the front desk staff are very responsive, always a pleasant experience getting a cleaning.
View on GoogleCan I Get a Crown on the Same Day as My Root Canal Treatment?
Our dentists often won't recommend a crown on the same day of your root canal treatment. Instead, waiting a few weeks to make sure everything heals properly and looks good is recommended. However, if the dentist thinks the tooth looks good, we can make the new crown and place it immediately using our in-office same-day CEREC® technology.
Concerned About Costs?
While insurance typically covers at least part of a root canal treatment, if you have high out-of-pocket costs or lack insurance, we can help. We offer flexible financing through CareCredit®. This allows you to spread the cost of dental work over several months, which makes it easier to fit into your budget. If you have questions, please let us know.
"What more could you ask for?" More 5-Star Reviews From Arlington, VA, Patients
Violet Slepoy
71066041
2022
Absolutely love this studio and everyone who works here! The office is modern, the service is great, and the dentists are all very friendly and well informed. I’ve had lots of different services here and all were completed well. Also, the front desk receptionist is so kind and helpful. I’m used to ride receptionists at other offices so that was definitely a welcome change.
View on GoogleTara B.
71066041
2022
Same amazing service I’ve been experiencing here for the last 10 years, but recently they have had a new dentist join their team, Dr.Casey. Excellent dentist, stellar bedside manner, skillful, hilarious, empathetic. Techs and support staff are as professional and caring as ever. The place is spotless and conveniently located, with street parking literally steps from the front door. What more could you ask for?
View on Google
