ROOT CANALS

When bacteria enters the center of a tooth and causes an infection, the pulp, or center tissue, of the tooth may need to be removed during a root canal procedure. During a root canal, the infected tooth gets cleaned, disinfected, and filled to prevent the issue from returning while keeping your natural tooth. If you need this procedure, you deserve the highest quality care our experienced team at Parsons Smile Center provides. We strive to understand the root cause of the infection and relieve your pain so that you can get back to your life.

We understand you may worry about getting a root canal, but it is a routine and straightforward procedure we have years of experience performing. In addition, Dr. Fady Salha is committed to using the latest technologies and techniques to give you the best experience possible. We always prioritize your health and safety to make you feel comfortable. With our consistent support and honest communication, you can make informed decisions and always know what to expect during treatment.

What Does the Root Canal Process Entail?

Root canal therapy involves filling the root structure of a deeply damaged tooth to restore its original shape, size, and bite. This procedure helps relieve tooth pain and protect the rest of your healthy smile. However, we understand receiving this treatment can be overwhelming, so we address all your concerns before the root canal. While every patient is different, the typical root canal procedure involves the following steps:

• Anesthesia: Before the procedure, we apply a local anesthetic to numb the affected area. Depending on your comfort level and health history, we may use additional sedatives to make the root canal as painless as possible.
• Dam placement: The specialist places a dental dam over the infected tooth and surrounding gums to keep them dry.
• Pulp removal: Next, the specialist makes a small opening in the tooth to remove the blood vessels, nerves, and tissues from the inside.
• Canal shaping and filling: Once the pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth and root canals are cleaned, disinfected, reshaped, and filled.
• Tooth sealing: The dentist places a temporary filling on the tooth to seal it and prevent bacteria from re-entering.
• Restoration: You may also need a dental crown to protect the tooth and restore your bite.

To determine if this procedure is right for you, we take dental X-rays to assess the extent of the infection. This allows us to better understand your condition and the best treatment option.

What to Expect After a Root Canal

While you should experience relief after a root canal, you may notice the affected tooth is sensitive for a few days after the procedure. This symptom is normal and can be managed with medication. Typical recovery can take one to two weeks, and you may resume work or school the next day. However, we recommend eating only soft foods for the first few days and slowly integrating solid foods as you become more comfortable.

Another essential element of a root canal is recovery and aftercare. How you care for the treated tooth after the procedure is vital to proper healing. The following tips can prevent the infection from returning:

• Keep the area clean
• Brush and flush as normal
• Use antibacterial mouthwash
• Avoid biting or chewing with the treated tooth

Our dedicated team at Parsons Smile Center checks in with you after your root canal to ensure the area is healing and doesn’t need any further treatment. When performed correctly, results from a root canal can be long-lasting.

How to Know If You Need a Root Canal in Flushing, Queens

When decay or trauma has impacted the nerves and soft structures inside your tooth, you may need a root canal to eliminate the pulp and strengthen the tooth. Our skilled specialists can help you spot these issues in an exam or consultation, but if you experience the following symptoms, you may need a root canal:

• Constant tooth pain or pressure in the mouth
• Swollen and sensitive gums
• Sharp pain when biting down
• Lasting pain after biting into hot or cold foods

Typical cavities only affect the hard parts of a tooth—enamel and dentin. But, if the decay goes unchecked, it can reach the inner, soft parts, and you may need a root canal. The alternative to this procedure is extracting the tooth and replacing it. Choosing a root canal and getting tooth decay or trauma treated quickly can help preserve your natural tooth and prevent long-term health problems. Therefore, root canals can help avoid more tooth pain and expensive dental work down the road.