Why Our Dentists May Recommend a Tooth Extraction
Each tooth is made up of a hard outer enamel layer, a softer dentin layer beneath it, and a central pulp that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
Normally, the pulp is well protected—but if bacteria reach it through a deep cavity, crack, or trauma, infection can occur. When the damage is too severe to repair, our dentists at Best Smiles in Glen Allen, VA, may recommend a tooth extraction to protect your overall oral health.
Why a Root Canal May Be Necessary
When a tooth becomes infected, it often causes significant pain—and if left untreated, the infection will only worsen. Without intervention, the only alternative may be tooth removal, which we always try to avoid.
Losing a tooth can lead to complications like bone loss and shifting of nearby teeth. A root canal allows us to remove the infection, save your natural tooth, and protect your long-term oral health. It’s also typically more comfortable and has a quicker recovery than a tooth extraction.
Book Online
What to Expect During a Root Canal
We know root canals can sound intimidating, but the procedure is simpler and more comfortable than most people expect. At Best Smiles in Glen Allen, VA, we use advanced 3-D cone-beam (CBCT) imaging to view your tooth in precise detail, allowing our dentists to plan the procedure with accuracy and confidence.
This technology gives us a complete picture of your tooth’s anatomy, ensuring a smoother process. Combined with effective anesthesia, it helps minimize discomfort—and most patients feel significant relief immediately after the procedure.
Book Online
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
An infected or abscessed tooth often comes with noticeable symptoms. Watch for the following signs that may indicate the need for root canal treatment:
Severe Toothache
A severe toothache may stem from cavities, infections, gum disease, or cracked teeth, often causing throbbing pain and swelling. While over-the-counter pain relievers or cold compresses can offer temporary relief, persistent pain should be evaluated by a dentist.
Extreme Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods can result from worn enamel, gum recession, or cavities. Desensitizing toothpaste may help, but ongoing sensitivity should be checked by a dentist to rule out more serious issues.
Jaw Pain or Swelling
Jaw pain or swelling can be a sign of a tooth infection, gum disease, trauma, or a TMJ disorder. While temporary relief is possible with ice packs or pain relievers, persistent discomfort should be addressed by a dental professional.
Pimple-like Bump on the Gum
A small bump on the gum that resembles a pimple may indicate a dental abscess or gum infection. This can be painful and may require professional treatment such as drainage or antibiotics.
Swollen, Red, or Puffy Gums
Gums that appear red, swollen, or puffy are common signs of gum disease, often linked to plaque buildup or infection. While improved oral hygiene may help, ongoing symptoms should be evaluated by a dentist.
Persistent Bad Taste or Odor
A constant bad taste or odor in the mouth may point to tooth decay, gum disease, or infection. Good oral hygiene can help temporarily, but lasting symptoms should be checked by a dental professional.
Expert Care to Relieve Your Pain
To treat the infection, our dentist carefully accesses the pulp chamber through a small opening in the tooth. Using advanced rotary endodontic technology, we gently and efficiently remove the infected pulp. This modern method is quicker and more comfortable than traditional techniques.
Once the infection is cleared, the chamber is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling for protection.
Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
Book Online
Your Comfort is Our Priority
If you experience dental anxiety, we offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation to help you stay relaxed throughout your visit. For added comfort, our treatment rooms are equipped with cozy neck pillows, blankets, and TVs so you feel calm and cared for.
Before we begin, our dentist will thoroughly numb the area with a powerful local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free procedure. If you arrived in discomfort, you’ll likely feel immediate relief as soon as the tooth is numb.
Book Online
Clear and Honest Pricing
At Best Smiles, your comfort and trust are our top priorities. That’s why we’re committed to full transparency—not just in the care we provide, but also in our pricing. Below, you’ll find a list of our most common services along with their fees. If you have any questions, we’re always happy to help.
Book Online
Need an Emergency Root Canal in Glen Allen, VA?
If you’re dealing with a throbbing toothache or other urgent symptoms, don’t wait—call Best Smiles in Glen Allen, VA. We’re here to relieve your pain quickly and will do our best to see you the same day. If full treatment can’t be completed immediately, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable and schedule you for the next available appointment.
Book Online
