What is endodontics?
Endodontic treatment, or root canal therapy, is necessary when a tooth becomes infected. This procedure helps eliminate the infection and reduce the risk of recontamination. Root canal therapy is the only procedure that can save an infected tooth from extraction.
What is involved in root canal therapy?
The first step is to attend a consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, he or she can determine if root canal therapy is a viable option for you.
To begin the procedure, the area is numbed with local anesthesia. Next, a small access hole is carefully created in the tooth’s chewing surface. The infected nerves, blood vessels, and tissues are removed and the inside surfaces of the tooth are scrubbed and disinfected. Your dentist then fills the root canals and seals the tooth with a filling. In many cases, a crown is also recommended to add strength.
What are the benefits of root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy can:
- Eliminate the source of infection
- Preserve your bite
- Avoid the need for extraction
What should you keep in mind after the root canal?
After undergoing root canal therapy, certain guidelines should be followed to maintain your results:
- Visit your dentist regularly.
- Keep the area clean.
- Take all medications as prescribed.
Please call us at (212) 758-1000
or schedule an appointment online to have a consultation with our dentists. We are always happy to help.