What is Endodontics
Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the treatment and management of conditions affecting the the interior of the tooth. Endodontic treatment is used when the dental pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerves, arterioles, lymphatic tissue, fibrous tissue, and venules, are injured, damaged, or diseased. The goal of endodontics is to save the natural tooth for as long as possible.
Meet Our Endodontists
Virginia Family Dentistry has five Endodontic Specialists within the practice. Dr. Adrianne Castro, Dr. Paige Holbert, Dr. Deepika Ganesh, Dr. David Wozniak, and Dr. Steven Forte work with General Dentists to provide comprehensive care for their patients.
Need to schedule an appointment?
The Virginia Family Dentistry Endodontists practice at the following locations:
- Virginia Family Dentistry Chester
- Virginia Family Dentistry Mechanicsville
- Virginia Family Dentistry Midlothian-288
- Virginia Family Dentistry Short Pump
- Virginia Family Dentistry Staples Mill
What is a root canal?
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.
At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp.
How is a root canal performed?
During a root canal, the injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. The tooth will then be restored with a crown or filling. Root Canal therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required.
How successful is root canal therapy?
Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addition, we will provide sedation if requested. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.
What happens after treatment?
Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. When your root canal therapy has been completed, you should contact the office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion of the root canal. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene.
Please follow the instructions given to you after treatment:
Post Root Canal Therapy Instructions
Post Endodontic Surgery Instructions
Need to schedule an appointment with one of our endodontists? Call one of our endodontic locations: Midlothian, Short Pump, Staples Mill, Chester