The experienced dental team at Lake Success Dental Care in New Hyde Park, New York, is often able to save teeth affected by abscess or significant decay through root canal treatment. While many dentists perform a root canal over 2-3 separate visits, the professionals at Lake Success Dental Care can complete all steps in a single outpatient visit.
During a root canal procedure, the pulp of the tooth is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned out, and the tooth and roots are refilled with a synthetic substance. Finally, the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown. This alleviates the pain associated with permanent damage to the nerve of the tooth and prevents further damage, often saving the tooth.
A root canal is required when the nerve has been irreversibly damaged. This can happen as a result of infection (an advanced cavity), trauma to the tooth, or history of several restorations on the same tooth.
The most common signs and symptoms include:
Some of these symptoms may also indicate other problems that require different treatment. X-ray confirmation is required before a root canal is performed.
The patient is always numb during the procedure, so root canals are not painful at all. Some patients experience minimal discomfort in their jaw while having dental work performed due to having to hold their mouth open for an extended period of time. Many patients experience some soreness following the procedure, which can be the result of the anesthetic injection or the root canal itself. Side effects usually resolve within a week, but over-the-counter pain relievers can help in the meantime.
Once infection or damage reaches the nerve of the tooth, the patient is at high risk of losing the tooth. Root canal is an alternative option to extracting the tooth. Extraction is accompanied by discomfort, pain, and risks of its own. Perhaps most importantly, extractions can cause problems with bite, Temporomandibular Joint disorders (TMJ), difficulty chewing/eating, speech problems, and decreased self-confidence. Only the patient and his or her dentist can decide which route of treatment is appropriate and best aligned with the patient’s treatment goals.
"From the moment I called to make an appointment to the moment I left everything was perfect."
"I think this is the best dental group you will find in New Hyde Park. From my initial phone call to when I left the office, everything was great."
"The visit was great. The receptionist is wonderful. My son was with us and she made him feel comfortable and that's important to us. Thank you."
