Root Canal & Endodontics in Middletown, NY

What are Dental Root Canals?

Inside a tooth is a collection of living tissue, nerves and canals. When decay, infection or trauma reaches this tissue it causes acute pain. Dentists use root canal treatments to remove any decay or infection and the decayed or dead nerve tissue. This procedure will help to stop the pain and pressure you’ve been feeling.

Do I Need a Dental Root Canal?

You would have to visit a dentist to be certain; however, common symptoms that indicate that you may need the procedure include:

• Acute pain that does not lessen or abate
• Swelling in the gum near the tooth
• Tooth darkening
• It hurts when you bite down

What is a Root Canal Dentist?

More than likely, your family dentist is skilled in performing the procedure, as it is a common one. If your situation is complex, our dentist will refer you to a specialist. If you need a dentist experienced in performing root canals, call our office to schedule your appointment.

Is the Root Canal Procedure Complicated?

First, you receive local anesthesia to numb the area. Once it’s numb, our dentist will drill a hole in the tooth's crown to reach the pulp. Then, your dentist will clean and disinfect the canal, removing the nerve and shaping the pulp. Next, your dentist fills the canal with gutta-percha, a rubbery substance, and he or she seals it. On your next visit, you should have the tooth capped with a root canal crown, as it will break more easily without this protective device.

This is a painless procedure. If you start experiencing pain during the procedure, let our dentist know immediately.

What Can I Expect to Pay for a Root Canal?

Your root canal cost is quoted to you after an initial examination. Our dentist will determine the extent of the damage to your tooth and provide you with a price based on how many roots are holding the tooth in your mouth as well. If our dentist believes that your case needs a specialist, we will refer you to one. You can expect to pay more for root canals that are more complicated. Call our office today to schedule your exam.

Are There Different Types of Root Canals?

Many people have conventional root canals performed on their molars, although, root canals can be done on any tooth. If infection sets in after a previous procedure, a dentist or endodontist may perform an apicoectomy, where he or she will snip off a tiny portion of a tooth's root, and then the dentist seals the root. Dentists also do root canals on damaged baby teeth.

What Happens After a Dental Root Canal Treatment?

You'll experience minor pain and swelling for up to four days. Our dentist will give you instructions for handling the pain. Contrary to popular belief, the tooth can still decay. You won't feel the cavity since the nerve is gone, so keep your regular appointments so the dentist can catch any decay with an x-ray, while it is still minor. Call our office to arrange an appointment with our dentist who has experience with root canals. You don't need to suffer with a toothache any longer.