Root Canals
Root Canal Treatment in Loudoun County, VA
Each tooth contains soft tissue called pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. When a deep cavity or a crack lets bacteria reach the pulp, it can become infected — and if left untreated, that infection can spread to the bone around the root, causing an abscess, swelling, and significant pain. Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, cleans and seals the space inside the tooth, and lets you keep your natural tooth instead of losing it to extraction.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers well after the sensation should have faded
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a specific tooth
- A tooth that has darkened or discolored
- A small, painful bump on the gum (an abscess)
If you’re dealing with sudden, severe pain, this may be a dental emergency — see our emergency care page or call us right away at (703) 542-7600.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
This is the question almost everyone asks, and it’s rooted in an outdated reputation. The American Association of Endodontists notes that with modern anesthesia and technique, most patients say a root canal feels similar to getting a filling — and that patients who’ve actually had one are far more likely to describe it as painless than people who haven’t. If dental anxiety is part of what’s holding you back, we also offer sedation dentistry to help you stay comfortable throughout treatment.
What to Expect
Root canal treatment is often completed in one visit, though more complex cases — particularly molars with multiple canals, or teeth with significant infection — may take two visits. Your dentist will remove the infected pulp, then clean, shape, and seal the space inside the tooth. Many back teeth need a crown afterward to protect what’s left of the natural tooth structure and restore full chewing strength.
Root Canal vs. Extraction
Removing the tooth (an extraction) is sometimes presented as the simpler option, but a root canal lets you keep your natural tooth, which generally means better long-term chewing function and less need for a replacement like a dental implant or bridge down the road. We’ll walk you through both options and what makes sense for your specific tooth.
Cost and Financing
Root canal cost varies depending on which tooth is affected and whether a crown is needed afterward. We accept most major dental insurance plans and offer CareCredit financing. Visit our Financial Info page, or call and we’ll help you understand your specific costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a root canal hurt?
With modern anesthesia and technique, most patients say a root canal feels similar to getting a filling. Patients who have had root canal treatment are far more likely to describe it as painless than those who haven’t.
How many visits does a root canal take?
Many root canals are completed in a single visit, though more complex cases — such as molars with multiple canals or significant infection — may require two visits.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
Often, yes, especially for back teeth. A crown protects the remaining tooth structure and restores full chewing strength.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
Untreated infection can spread to the bone around the tooth, causing an abscess, worsening pain, and potentially leading to tooth loss.
How much does a root canal cost?
Cost depends on the tooth and whether a crown is needed afterward. Call our office and we can walk you through your specific costs and insurance coverage.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re dealing with tooth pain, don’t wait — call (703) 542-7600 or schedule your appointment online.