Root Canal Treatment

While you’ve likely heard the expression, “I’d rather have a root canal than…,” it’s a far better alternative to the pain and potential tooth loss—or even life-threatening blood infections—that delaying treatment for an infected tooth can cause.

Root canal treatments are actually relatively painless. Our friendly team will go above and beyond to ensure your experience is a comfortable one. You may need a root canal treatment if you experience:

• Toothaches
• Tooth sensitivity
• Pus around teeth and gums
• Tooth pain
• Tooth discoloration
• Facial swelling

If you’re showing signs of a tooth infection, we’re happy to help. Give us a call to schedule an exam. We do our best to offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies.

Root canal treatment is very similar to a dental filling and takes just one to two visits to perform. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

• Before the procedure, we’ll use an anesthetic to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. You won’t feel any pain during the process – only pressure.
• Dr. Russo will make a tiny opening on the tooth’s surface to access to space inside.
• Then she’ll use specialized instruments and often a surgical operating microscope, to remove the infected and dying pulp.
• After that, the area will be cleaned and disinfected before being filled with a biocompatible material.
• The opening on the tooth’s surface is covered with a durable temporary filling material to prevent debris from entering.

As mentioned, many people think root canal treatment is painful but the treatment is no more uncomfortable than most other dental procedures. You may experience slight discomfort and swelling for a few days following the process, but the pain from the infection subsides quickly after treatment.

You’ll leave our office with detailed instructions on caring for the tooth to ensure it stays clean and heals properly. Following these instructions will prevent further infection and pain. We may also prescribe medication to reduce swelling and discomfort, but in most cases, over-the-counter pain relievers are sufficient.

The cost of a root canal varies depending on how severe the infection is, whether the tooth is a molar, bicuspid, or incisor and whether dental insurance is available to help cover the procedure. Once Dr. Russo has examined your tooth, we will estimate the total cost of your root canal treatment. We’ll take the time to ensure you understand your treatment plan, including the financial aspects before any procedure is started. 

If you’re suffering from tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity, call our caring team at Russo Endodontics at 703-503-0555 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Russo, Burke’s leading local endodontic specialist.