Endodontics (Root Canal Treatment) in Long Island & NYC
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment involves the removal of the pulpal tissue (the nerve and small blood vessels) from the inside of the tooth to save a tooth from being extracted.
Why do I need a root canal?
A root canal may be necessary if:
- Tooth has a large cavity or hole
- Tooth is fractured
- Tooth had some trauma (i.e. was bumped)
- Nerve inside tooth is infected
Why should I get a root canal?
If an injured or infected pulp is not removed, the tissue and bone around a tooth can become infected. This can result in pain and swelling and, if left untreated, the tooth may need to be removed.
How does my dentist do a root canal?
A root canal involves the following steps:
- The tooth is numbed and isolated.
- Decay is removed and an opening is established to the interior of the tooth.
- The pulp (nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth) is cleaned out.
- The empty canal is filled with material called Gutta Percha (a filler which does not react with the body).
- A temporary filling is placed in the tooth until it is prepared for a crown.
What happens after my root canal is completed? Do I need a crown?
There is not sufficient tooth structure to support a filling so the tooth could easily fracture. Also, the seal of a temporary filling is not adequate after two weeks and a conventional filling will also be ineffective in preventing contamination of the tooth over long periods of time. Your dentist will recommend either a core build up or a post and core build up depending on the amount of remaining healthy tooth – this is to hold the crown. After the core or post and core, the tooth is prepared for a crown and approximately two weeks later, your new crown will be ready!
Our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible with this procedure. For more information, call us today at 844.365.DENTAL or request an appointment through our website at any time.