Dentistry in Chesapeake, VA
Restorative Dentistry
Root Canals
When a large cavity or fracture penetrates the inside of a tooth, a root canal can restore the tooth’s function. Root canal treatment can alleviate tooth pain, prevent tooth loss, and prevent permanent bone damage. Dr. Simmons performs comfortable root canal treatment in the convenience of our Chesapeake dental office.
What is a root canal?
Your teeth contain several layers. The hard outer layer is called the enamel. Beneath the enamel lies a secondary layer of porous dentin. The innermost layer is called the pulp or nerve. The pulp chambers branch out, forming canals that lead to the tooth root tip. These canals provide means for the tooth to absorb nutrients and expel waste. A root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp and canals fill with bacterial. During the treatment, Dr. Simmons removes the diseased substance, replaces it with a manmade material, and seals the tooth.
Will root canal treatment hurt?
People often mistakenly associate their pain with the treatment. Root canal treatment actually alleviates the pain cause by the swollen pulp. We offer sedation dentistry to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment, which can be completed in a single visit. Some minor swelling is common following root canal therapy, and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?
Dr. Simmons will evaluate your tooth to determine the best course of action. If the tooth can be saved with root canal treatment, this is often the best solution. Otherwise, the tooth will have to be extracted and replaced with a prosthetic, which can be a much more involved procedure.
Call today to reserve your root canal consultation with Dr. Robert A. Simmons. Our dental office is conveniently located in the Great Bridge Hickory area in Chesapeake, Virginia just north of the North Carolina border. We serve patients from Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Hampton Roads, Moyock, Elizabeth City, Currituck, Outer Banks and beyond with personalized dental care.