Comprehensive Guide to Root Canal Treatment at Farhoumand Dentistry

Farhoumand Dentistry sets itself apart from other dental offices in Tysons Corner, Virginia, with our advanced technology and commitment to delivering treatments that meet the highest quality and safety standards. Our root canal procedures have a success rate of over 95%, effectively relieving pain and preserving teeth that might otherwise require extraction due to severe damage. Although root canal therapy has been performed for many years, recent advancements have made the procedure more predictable, safe, efficient, and comfortable. We encourage you to learn more about our one-day, microscopy-assisted root canal therapy at Farhoumand Dentistry by reviewing frequently asked questions about the process.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

The term “root canal” describes a specific treatment process to clean, reshape, and seal the canals inside a tooth. These canals house nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Damage to these areas, whether from disease or trauma, can lead to serious problems, including infections. Interestingly, a tooth that requires a root canal may not be painful at all, as the nerve within the tooth might have died. In such cases, the tooth cannot send pain signals to the brain despite an infection that needs attention. Occasionally, pus may drain from the infection, relieving pressure and relieving pain. So, just because a tooth does not hurt does not mean it is healthy. In the example mentioned here, you do not want a constant source of infection in your body. The infection can spread and get worse without treatment. Untreated oral infections have been known to cause life-threatening systemic infections (sepsis). When infection shows on an X-ray, we want to treat the “dead tooth” as soon as possible.

How can I tell if a root canal can save my tooth?

A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if root canal therapy is the right choice for your tooth. A simple filling or crown can sometimes repair a cavity or minor decay. However, if the damage has reached the innermost part of the tooth, fillings and crowns will no longer be sufficient.

What happens after you find the root canals?

After identifying the root canals, we remove the infected tissues once we have gathered all the necessary information for successful treatment. The canals are then sterilized and filled with a biocompatible material. We also seal the opening or cavity created to access the canals. Finally, a dental crown is placed on the treated tooth for added strength and protection.

Will it hurt?

No. This is one of the biggest misconceptions about root canal treatment. The procedure itself is not painful; the conditions it treats, however, can be very painful. Treatment is performed only after the tooth has been fully numbed. We often relieve painful pressure by opening the tooth to access the canals and remove the damaged tissue.

How do one-day root canals work?

This super-convenient process uses a special surgical microscope. So, after we have opened up the tooth and gained access to the problematic tooth and its canals are examined, the inner tissues are examined using microscopy. We can magnify this tiny area by up to 25 times. Such detailed knowledge of the anatomy of your tooth not only supports the safest treatment experience but also minimizes the risk of root canal therapy failures that might later necessitate retreatment or surgical endodontic alternatives (like apicoectomy). Also known as “root-end resection,” this surgery involves removing the persistently inflamed or infected end of the root and some surrounding tissue. For instance, we may be able to identify and treat “hidden” root canals, which can be at the root of persistent signs of infection during the post-treatment period. To further ensure precise treatment, we use special tools to identify the length and positioning of each root canal. Here again, no root canals or portions thereof will be missed.

What are the benefits of using high-magnification technologies in dental treatments, especially for root canal teeth?

High-magnification techniques and advanced technologies ensure a safe, fast, and low-risk patient experience and allow for the most conservative treatments. We focus on isolating and treating only the affected tissues, avoiding removing otherwise healthy ones. Our team works closely with patients to promote sustained healing and the long-term success of their teeth.

How do I care for my tooth afterward?

After your treatment, please avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed, as you will likely have a temporary filling or crown. Once your permanent crown is ready, please return to our office promptly for placement.

The crown is essential for restoring the strength of the treated tooth. Delaying its placement increases the risk of fracture, as root canal treatment weakens the tooth’s structure by removing the nerve and blood supply, making it more brittle under chewing forces. Following our team’s instructions is crucial for ensuring the best outcome.

Why should I trust my root canal to Farhoumand Dentistry?

You can trust Farhoumand Dentistry with your root canal because of the exceptional care provided by Dr. Sanam Kheirieh. She brings extensive experience and expertise to every procedure, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality of dental care. Dr. Kheirieh prioritizes patient comfort, uses advanced techniques, and offers personalized treatment plans to address individual needs. Her commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction makes Farhoumand Dentistry a reliable choice for your root canal treatment. 

Proactive measures are essential in dentistry to avoid emergencies. If you are concerned about changes to a tooth or are simply overdue for an exam, call our team in Tysons Corner, VA, without delay at (703) 636-2442.