Root Canal

What is a root canal?

Root canal therapy is a procedure Dr. Woo and his team offer to restore and save an infected, permanent tooth from falling out. He can remove infected or decaying tissue in the inner part of your tooth, or its pulp, and fill it with dental materials to avoid serious complications and alleviate your pain.

Why might I need a root canal?

If you have severe tooth decay or an infection, Dr. Woo might recommend a root canal to prevent the infection from spreading and needing extraction. Signs you may need a root canal include:

• A toothache
• Pain
• Swelling
• Pain with chewing
• Hot or cold sensitivity
• Tooth discoloration
• Swollen gums
• Puss near your teeth and gums

• A deep cavity or crack

See the Hartsdale Dental Care team at the first sign of a problem, as early detection and treatment gives you the best chance of preventing serious complications.

Is a root canal right for me?

To find out if you’re a good candidate for a root canal, Dr. Woo and his team examine your teeth and gums. They review your oral health history and symptoms and take dental X-rays. 

If you have minor tooth decay, Dr. Woo and his team might be able to repair it with a tooth-colored filling, dental bonding, or a crown. In severe cases of decay or damage, you might require extraction. Restoring your tooth, however, is a top priority at Hartsdale Dental Care.

What should I expect during a root canal?

When you arrive at Hartsdale Dental Care for a root canal, you relax in a comfortable dental chair. Dr. Woo and his team numb the treatment area, so you don’t feel any pain during your procedure.

They make an opening in the top of your tooth to gain access to the inside. Dr. Woo removes the pulp and cleans the pulp chamber. He may apply a special medication to clear an infection before filling the chamber with gutta-percha to restore your tooth.

Afterward, you might receive a temporary filling. During a second visit, Dr. Woo can re-clean your tooth and place a permanent filling or crown over the top, protecting it from future decay and damage. Root canal therapy has a high success rate, and the results can last a lifetime.

What happens after a root canal?

After a root canal, your tooth might feel a little bit sensitive for a day or two. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. 

Keep your teeth and gums clean by flossing every day and brushing your teeth at least two times daily. Don’t chew on hard objects, and see the Hartsdale Dental Care team every six months for routine cleanings and dental exams.

Don’t let a painful or swollen tooth become a serious oral health problem. Schedule an appointment with Hartsdale Dental Care by phone or book online at the first sign of a toothache to determine if you need a root canal.