Root Canal Treatment in New York, NY
A root canal removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, relieving pain and allowing adults to keep a natural tooth that might otherwise be lost.
About Root Canals at Rock Dental
Root canals are needed when decay and bacteria spread for too long without treatment. At a certain point, this decay makes it to the pulp inside the tooth. This pulp includes nerves, therefore infection generally causes a lot of pain. Since this is happening on the inside of the tooth, you won’t necessarily see the damage. Instead, you could feel it through pain and notice other signs that include bleeding, swelling and bad breath.
Why a Root Canal Can Save Your Tooth
A root canal has a reputation it does not really deserve. The treatment is what relieves the pain, not what causes it. By removing the infected tissue from inside the tooth, your dentist takes away the source of the pressure and inflammation. With modern anesthetic, most people say the experience is comparable to having a filling placed, and they are typically relieved to have the toothache gone.
The alternative to a root canal is usually removing the tooth. Keeping your natural tooth, when it can be saved, helps you chew normally, keeps neighboring teeth from shifting and avoids the need for a replacement. An untreated infection will not clear by itself and can spread into the jawbone or form an abscess. If you have lingering pain, swelling or a pimple-like bump on your gum, call the office at (212) 332-1020.
What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment
Your dentist will take an X-ray to see the roots and surrounding bone, then numb the tooth thoroughly. A small opening is made in the chewing surface, and the infected pulp is removed. The canals inside the roots are cleaned, shaped and disinfected, then filled with a rubber-like material and sealed. Treatment typically takes one or two visits, depending on the tooth and the extent of the infection. Nitrous oxide is available if you feel anxious.
The tooth and nearby gum may feel tender for a few days, especially when you bite down. This is normal and usually manageable with the pain relief your dentist recommends. Avoid chewing hard foods on that side until the tooth has its final restoration. Back teeth in particular often need a crown afterward to protect them from cracking. Your dentist will advise which restoration suits your tooth and when to return for it.
Common Questions
Is a root canal painful?
How do I know if I need a root canal?
How long does a root canal take?
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
How much does a root canal cost?
Terms You May Hear
- Pulp
- The soft tissue at the center of a tooth that contains its nerves and blood vessels.
- Root canal
- The narrow channel inside a tooth root that holds the pulp, and also the name of the treatment that cleans it out.
- Crown
- A custom cap that covers a tooth to restore its shape and protect it from breaking.
Related Services
Porcelain Crowns
A porcelain crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers and strengthens a badly decayed, cracked, or heavily filled tooth while blending in with your smile.
Emergency Care
Emergency dental care addresses sudden problems such as severe toothaches, broken or knocked-out teeth and swelling, so pain is relieved and the tooth is protected.
Extractions
A tooth extraction removes a tooth that is too damaged, infected or crowded to keep, relieving pain and protecting the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
Fillings
A tooth-colored composite filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay or a small crack, restoring its shape and function for anyone with a cavity.
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