Your Trusted Richmond Dentist

Just hearing the words “root canal” can make some people feel anxious — but in reality, root canal therapy is a safe, routine treatment that can save your natural tooth and prevent more serious dental issues. At Westover Dentistry in Richmond, VA, we offer gentle, effective endodontic therapy for patients who are experiencing deep tooth pain, infection, or advanced decay. Here’s what you need to know about when a root canal is the right choice and how it can help protect your long-term oral health. What Is a Root Canal? A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels, and when it becomes infected — often due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma — it can cause severe pain or lead to abscesses. During a root canal, we: Gently remove the infected pulp Clean and disinfect the inner tooth Fill and seal the space Restore the tooth with a crown if needed This treatment relieves pain, stops the spread of infection, and helps preserve your natural tooth for years to come. How Do You Know If You Might Need a Root Canal? Here are common signs that a root canal may be necessary: Persistent tooth pain (especially when chewing or applying pressure) Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed Swollen gums or a small bump near the tooth (possible abscess) Darkening or discoloration of the tooth Cracked or injured tooth with deep damage Not all cases involve pain, which is why routine dental exams and X-rays are so important. At Westover Dentistry, we evaluate your symptoms and imaging before recommending any treatment. Why a Root Canal Might Be the Better Option Than Extraction When a tooth is badly infected, it may seem like pulling it is the easiest fix. But saving your natural tooth — when possible — is almost always better for your overall oral health. Here’s why: Keeps your natural bite and chewing function intact Prevents other teeth from shifting out of place Avoids the need for implants or bridges Preserves your jawbone structure Usually less costly in the long run At Westover Dentistry, we only recommend root canals when they’re truly necessary — and we take time to explain your options clearly so you can make an informed decision. What Is a Root Canal Like at Westover Dentistry? We understand that many people feel nervous about root canals, which is why we prioritize patient comfort every step of the way. Our Richmond dental team uses advanced techniques and local anesthetics to make the experience as smooth and pain-free as possible. In most cases, the procedure takes about 60–90 minutes and can be completed in just one or two visits. Patients often tell us, “That was easier than I expected!” Save Your Tooth. Relieve the Pain. Regain Comfort. If you’ve been told you might need a root canal — or you're experiencing symptoms like deep pain or sensitivity — we’re here to help. Our goal is always to protect your health, preserve your smile, and make your visit as stress-free as possible. 📍 7017 Old Jahnke Road Richmond VA 📞 (804) 320-7147 📧 receptionist@richmonddentist.net 📅 Book Your Appointment

When it comes to your teeth, putting off small problems can lead to bigger (and more expensive) ones. That’s especially true for dental cavities. At Westover Dentistry, we see it often — a patient puts off a simple filling, only to return later with pain, sensitivity, or a deeper issue that now requires more extensive treatment. Here’s why getting a dental filling sooner rather than later is one of the smartest choices you can make for your smile. What Is a Dental Filling? A dental filling is a simple procedure that restores a tooth damaged by decay. After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, your dentist fills the space with a tooth-colored composite material — restoring function and appearance while preventing further damage. Why You Shouldn’t Wait Delaying a dental filling might seem harmless, especially if you’re not in pain. But decay doesn’t stop on its own. It continues to spread — sometimes quietly — leading to more serious issues, such as: Increased tooth sensitivity or pai Larger areas of decay that require crowns or root canals Weakened tooth structure that can crack or fracture Higher out-of-pocket costs for more complex procedures Potential tooth loss if left untreated too long What could have been a quick, affordable fix may turn into a much more invasive treatment — all from waiting too long. The Benefits of Early Treatment By taking care of cavities early, you’re not just fixing a tooth — you’re protecting your future comfort, time, and finances. Here’s what early composite fillings offer: ✅ Minimally invasive — preserves more of your natural tooth ✅ Virtually invisible — color-matched to your enamel ✅ Long-lasting and durable — strong enough for everyday chewing ✅ Quick appointments — often completed in just one visit How to Know If You Need a Filling Not all cavities cause symptoms right away. That’s why regular checkups matter. Still, common signs that may indicate the need for a filling include: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets Visible holes or dark spots on teeth Toothache or pain when chewing A rough edge you can feel with your tongue Even if you're not experiencing discomfort, it's smart to follow your dentist's advice when they recommend a filling based on X-rays or an exam. Why Richmond Patients Trust Westover Dentistry Our Richmond dental team is here to make cavity treatment easy, comfortable, and stress-free. From gentle care to natural-looking composite materials, we focus on preserving your tooth — and your peace of mind. If you’ve been putting off a filling, now’s the time to take care of it before it turns into something more serious. We’ll walk you through every step and help you feel confident in your care. 📍 7017 Old Jahnke Road Richmond VA 📞 (804) 320-7147 📧 receptionist@richmonddentist.net 📅 Book Your Appointment