Root canal therapy at Smiles by Mia in Burke, VA, is designed to save your natural tooth when damage or infection affects the inner pulp. A root canal becomes necessary when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or injury. Left untreated, the infection can spread, causing severe pain, abscess formation, or even bone loss around the tooth. This condition affects not only your oral health but also your overall well-being.
The procedure involves removing the diseased tissue, disinfecting the interior of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further complications. Our gentle approach helps eliminate discomfort, protect surrounding teeth, and restore full chewing function. Following treatment, a crown is usually placed to reinforce the tooth’s strength and appearance. Root canals offer a reliable, long-term solution to preserve your oral health while avoiding extraction and more extensive dental work.
Laser root canal treatment is an innovative dental procedure that utilizes the power of advanced laser technology to eliminate damaged or infected pulpal tissue inside the tooth's canals. Unlike traditional root canal methods, which rely on manual techniques, laser treatment offers a more precise and minimally invasive alternative.
One key aspect of laser root canal treatment is its ability to provide a more comfortable experience and shorter recovery times compared to traditional methods. The targeted nature of the laser energy minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues and provides a more thorough disinfection inside the canals, leading to improved sterilization during the procedure and longer-lasting results.
Root canal treatment eliminates pain and infection while saving your natural tooth. It restores normal function, improves oral health, and prevents the need for more invasive procedures.
Most patients report that a root canal feels similar to getting a standard filling. Thanks to local anesthesia and modern techniques, the procedure is relatively pain-free. Some soreness may occur afterward, but it's manageable with over-the-counter medication and usually fades within a day or two. Our team ensures your comfort every step of the way.
A typical root canal procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes and is usually completed in one visit. In some cases involving severe infection or multiple canals, a second appointment may be needed. After the procedure, a follow-up for a crown placement is often scheduled to fully protect the tooth.
Yes, most root canal-treated teeth require a crown to restore strength and protect against future damage. The crown acts as a durable shield, especially for back teeth that handle more pressure during chewing. Without a crown, the tooth could be more prone to cracking or reinfection.
Common signs include persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums, or discoloration of the tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek evaluation as soon as possible. Our dental team will use X-rays and a clinical exam to determine whether a root canal is the best course of action.
Discover the perfect balance of cutting-edge dental care and rejuvenating aesthetic treatments in Burke, Virginia. At Smiles by Mia, your smile is our passion, and we specialize in creating radiant, confident transformations. From personalized smile makeovers to advanced facial treatments, your comfort, beauty, and satisfaction are always our top priorities.