What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a specialized dental procedure used to treat an infection in the pulp, which is the soft inner part of your tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
If the pulp inside your tooth becomes damaged by decay, injury, or infection, it can lead to inflammation, discomfort, and a higher risk of tooth loss.
Root canal therapy removes the diseased tissue, disinfects the inner tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. In most cases, a dental crown is placed afterward to strengthen and protect the tooth for long-term function.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?
Not all tooth pain means you need a root canal. However, there are several telltale signs that the nerve tissue inside your tooth may be infected:
- Severe toothache or sharp pain when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gum, which may indicate an abscess
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, our team can perform a dental exam and digital imaging to determine the right treatment option.
Steps of a Root Canal Procedure
We use modern techniques and advanced dental technology to make your procedure as comfortable and effective as possible.
Depending on the extent of the infection and the complexity of the tooth, treatment may take one to three visits. We will walk you through every step of your treatment plan so you know exactly what to expect.
When performed at our office, a root canal is a straightforward, supportive experience designed to relieve your pain and protect your tooth. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing: We begin with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. We will also discuss sedation options if you feel anxious or have dental sensitivities.
- Pulp removal: We use specialized instruments to carefully remove the infected pulp tissue from the root canals.
- Cleaning and shaping: The canals are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare them for sealing. This step helps remove any lingering bacteria and supports a strong, lasting result.
- Filling and sealing: We use a material called gutta-percha, a rubber-like and biocompatible substance, to fill the canals and seal them completely. This helps stabilize the tooth and lowers the risk of reinfection.
- Restoration: In most cases, we place a temporary filling to allow time for the tooth to heal and to ensure the infection has fully cleared. Once healing is confirmed, we will schedule a follow-up visit to design and place your custom crown. If your tooth is stable and free of infection, same-day crown placement may be possible using our in-office milling technology.
Our goal is to make the experience as smooth as possible, with clear care instructions for a healthy recovery.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and we understand the concern. Thanks to modern techniques and local anesthetics, most patients experience little to no pain. In fact, many are surprised at how similar the procedure feels to getting a standard filling.
You may feel mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward, but this typically resolves within a few days. Most discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication as your mouth heals.
Root Canal Recovery Time
Most patients recover within a few days. You might feel some soreness or sensitivity, especially when chewing or brushing near the treated area. This is normal and usually resolves quickly.
To support your recovery, follow these root canal aftercare tips:
- Try not to chew with the treated tooth until your final restoration is placed.
- Stick to soft foods for the first 24 to 48 hours.
- Brush and floss gently around the area to keep it clean without irritating the tissue.
- Take any prescribed medications or over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
- Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek if you experience swelling.
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first day.
- Follow all care instructions provided by our dental team.
If you experience severe pain, swelling, a fever, or signs of reinfection, contact our office as soon as possible. We are here to help you heal quickly and comfortably.
Restoring Your Tooth After Treatment
After your root canal, the final step is restoring your tooth. In most cases, this means placing a permanent dental crown or filling to protect the treated area and help prevent future damage.
Thanks to our in-office dental technology, we can design and mill custom crowns that are ready the same day. This means fewer appointments, faster results, and a more seamless dental experience.
We will explain your restoration options and guide you toward the best solution based on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your lifestyle.
Root Canal vs Extraction
When possible, preserving your natural teeth is always our priority. Root canal therapy and tooth extraction are both treatment options, but they come with different long-term outcomes.
| Root Canal Treatment | Tooth Extraction |
| Preserves your natural tooth | Removes the tooth entirely |
| Maintains bite and jaw alignment | May cause shifting of surrounding teeth |
| Helps prevent bone loss in the jaw | Increases the risk of bone loss |
| Usually followed by a dental crown | May require a bridge, denture, or implant |
| Less impact on adjacent teeth | Can affect chewing and speech |
Both options have their place in dental care, and we will help you choose the treatment that best supports your health, comfort, and long-term goals.
We participate with Delta Dental PPO Plus Premier plans and can help you make the most of your benefits, and we accept payment from all major dental insurance companies. As an in-network provider, we help patients maximize their benefits while receiving expert, personalized care that fits their coverage.We proudly serve Midlothian and Richmond and the Greater Richmond area with personalized, high-quality dental care.
Root Canal in Midlothian, VA
Dr. Rebecca Angus provides gentle root canal treatment to relieve pain, eliminate infection, and help preserve your natural tooth. Every treatment is carefully planned to restore your oral health while keeping you as comfortable as possible.
To book an appointment at our dentist office in Midlothian, VA, call (804) 794-6893 or visit us at 2400 Pagehurst Dr, Midlothian, VA 23113.
FAQs About Root Canal Therapy
How long does a root canal last?
A well-done root canal can last a lifetime, especially when paired with a protective crown and good oral hygiene. While no treatment can guarantee a tooth will last forever, most root canal-treated teeth stay healthy and functional for decades with regular dental checkups and daily care.
Can you drive after a root canal?
If your treatment only involves local anesthesia, you should be able to drive yourself home. However, if you choose sedation to help you relax during the procedure, you will need someone to drive you and stay with you afterward while the effects wear off.
Does a root canal hurt?
During the procedure, you will be numbed for comfort, and most patients compare it to getting a filling. Afterward, mild soreness is normal and manageable.
Are root canals covered by dental insurance?
Many dental insurance plans do cover root canals, especially when the procedure is needed to treat infection or save a tooth. Coverage can vary depending on your plan, so we’re happy to check your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs before your treatment begins. We accept Delta Dental PPO Plus Premier and several other major providers.
What are the risks of not getting a root canal?
Delaying treatment for an infected tooth can lead to worsening pain, abscess formation, tooth loss, or in severe cases infection that spreads to the blood, heart, or brain. Root canal therapy is a safe, effective solution that preserves your natural teeth and prevents more serious complications.
Where can I get a root canal near me?
Angus Dentistry in Midlothian, VA offers gentle, effective root canal therapy to treat infection and save your natural tooth. Using modern techniques and advanced technology, we make the process as comfortable and efficient as possible. Call (804) 794-6893 to schedule an appointment.