Do you have a cracked tooth or severe pain when biting? If so, the pulp of your tooth may be infected. With an evaluation at Midtown Dental Services, our dentist can check to see if you need root canal therapy to relieve your discomfort. To learn more about root canal therapy in New York City, New York, and schedule a visit with Dr. Mark Jacobson, please call us at 212-697-3946.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at saving a severely damaged or infected tooth. Within each tooth, there is a soft tissue called dental pulp, which houses nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, a cracked tooth or trauma, it can lead to severe pain and potential tooth loss if left untreated. A root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is the process of removing the infected or damaged pulp to relieve pain, prevent further infection and preserve the natural tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure
Root canal therapy involves the following steps:
- Diagnosis: Our dentist will begin by taking X-rays to identify the extent of the infection and to determine the shape and size of the root canals.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
- Access Opening: A small access hole is created in the tooth to reach the infected pulp.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The infected pulp is carefully removed, and the root canals are cleaned, disinfected and shaped using specialized instruments.
- Filling and Sealing: Once the canals are cleaned, they are filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, to seal the space and prevent reinfection. The access opening is then sealed with a dental restoration like a crown.
Most root canals can be completed in just one or two appointments. Our dentist will discuss the timeline of your treatment with you during your initial consultation.
Why Receive a Root Canal Instead of an Extraction?
Root canal therapy is often the only alternative to a tooth extraction, and is usually the preferred treatment option. There are several advantage to choosing a root canal over an extraction, such as:
- Preservation of Natural Tooth: A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth, maintaining proper chewing function and preventing potential jawbone deterioration.
- Aesthetic Considerations: Retaining your natural tooth helps maintain your smile’s appearance and avoids the need for more extensive dental work, such as dental bridges or implants.
- Cost-Effective: Root canal therapy is often more cost-effective in the long run than tooth extraction followed by replacement options.
- Efficient and Comfortable: Advances in dental technology and anesthesia make root canal procedures efficient and relatively painless, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
Schedule A Consultation
We invite you to contact our team today for more information about root canal therapy and to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentist.