Root Canal Therapy in NYC
Save your natural tooth and end throbbing tooth pain with gentle root canal therapy in Manhattan. Book your consultation at SmileWorks in New York today!
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed to save infected teeth. This endodontic treatment removes infected tissue from inside your tooth pulp chamber and root canal system, eliminating persistent tooth pain while preserving your natural tooth.
When deep tooth decay, broken teeth, or trauma damage the nerve and blood vessels inside your tooth, bacteria can cause infection. Our root canal specialists use cutting edge technology and advanced training to provide comfortable, effective endodontic care that eliminates infection and restores your oral health.
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Do You Need a Root Canal? Warning Signs
Don’t ignore these symptoms that indicate you need a root canal:
Throbbing pain that worsens with pressure
Sensitivity to hot/cold that lingers
Swelling or tenderness in gums
Darkening of the affected tooth
Persistent tooth pain that disrupts sleep
Pimple-like bump on gums (abscess)
Delaying treatment allows infection to spread from the damaged tooth to surrounding teeth and even your jaw bone. What starts as manageable tooth pain can escalate to serious dental issues requiring tooth extraction and more complex dental procedures. Early intervention through root canal therapy saves your tooth and prevents costly complications.
Our experienced dentists provide gentle, effective root canal treatment to relieve pain and preserve your natural smile with ease and comfort.
Root Canal Procedure
We understand that dental anxiety is common, which is why we’re here to guide you through every step. If you’re scheduled for a root canal, here’s what you can typically expect throughout the process.
Diagnosis and Preparation
Before starting the procedure, your dentist will numb the affected area to ensure your comfort. They will then place a rubber dam around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva during the treatment.
Accessing the Pulp
To reach the infected pulp, your dentist will create a small access hole in the tooth’s crown. This allows them to remove the damaged pulp tissue and clean out the root canals.
Cleaning and Shaping
Using specialized instruments, the dentist will carefully clean and shape the inside of the root canals to remove any remaining bacteria and debris. They may also irrigate the canals with antibacterial solutions to ensure thorough disinfection.
Filling the Canals
Once the canals are clean and dry, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material seals the canals to prevent re-infection and provides structural support to the tooth.
Restoration
After the root canal is completed, the tooth is usually restored with a filling or a crown to protect it and restore its function and appearance. In some cases, a temporary filling may be placed until a permanent restoration can be made.
Why SmileWorks Excels at Root Canal Therapy in NYC
Our award-winning team at SmileWorks brings board-certified expertise and advanced training to every root canal procedure. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, our state-of-the-art facility features the latest dental technology including 3D imaging and digital dentistry tools that ensure accurate diagnosis and precise treatment of even the most complex cases. Our clinicians’ academic credentials and clinical accolades reflect our commitment to excellence in endodontic care.
Our patient-first philosophy means your comfort and successful outcomes drive every decision. We understand that root canal cost concerns many New York patients, which is why we accept most dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options. Our multilingual staff provides culturally sensitive care, ensuring clear communication throughout your treatment. Since most common dental procedures performed in our office are covered by insurance, we work diligently to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Our experienced dentists provide gentle, effective root canal treatment to relieve pain and preserve your natural smile with ease and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy at SmileWorks NYC
Is root canal therapy painful?
Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy is typically no more uncomfortable than having a large filling. Modern endodontic techniques and anesthesia have made the procedure much more comfortable than in the past. We use local anesthesia to completely numb the treatment area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Root canal therapy actually relieves the severe pain caused by infected or inflamed pulp tissue. Most patients experience minimal discomfort after treatment, which usually responds well to over-the-counter pain medications. Any mild sensitivity typically resolves within a few days. At SmileWorks, our gentle approach and advanced technology ensure your comfort throughout the entire process.
How many appointments does root canal therapy require?
Most root canal treatments at SmileWorks can be completed in one to two appointments, depending on the complexity of your case. Simple cases with one root canal may be finished in a single 60-90 minute visit, while more complex cases involving multiple roots or severe infection may require two appointments. During your first visit, we’ll remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the root canals, and place a temporary filling. If a second visit is needed, we’ll complete the cleaning process and permanently seal the tooth. Our state-of-the-art equipment and experienced team work efficiently to minimize the number of visits required while ensuring thorough treatment.
What happens during root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy involves several carefully orchestrated steps to save your natural tooth. First, we’ll take X-rays and administer local anesthesia for your comfort. We then create a small access hole in the crown of your tooth to reach the infected pulp chamber. Using specialized instruments, we carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp tissue and thoroughly clean and shape the root canals. The canals are then disinfected to eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of future infection. Finally, we fill and seal the space with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and place a temporary filling. You’ll typically need a crown to protect the treated tooth and restore full function.
How much does root canal therapy cost in Manhattan?
Root canal therapy costs in Manhattan typically range from $800 to $1,500 per tooth, depending on which tooth needs treatment and the complexity of the case. Front teeth with one root are generally less expensive than back teeth with multiple roots. At SmileWorks, we accept all PPO insurance plans, and most dental insurance covers 50-80% of root canal costs when the treatment is deemed necessary. We also accept FSA/HSA funds, which can provide additional savings using pre-tax dollars. For patients without insurance, we offer payment plans to make treatment affordable. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed treatment estimate and work with your insurance to maximize your benefits.
Will I need a crown after root canal therapy?
In most cases, yes, you’ll need a crown after root canal therapy to protect the treated tooth. Root canal treatment removes the pulp that supplies nutrients to the tooth, making it more brittle and susceptible to fracture. A crown acts like a protective helmet, restoring the tooth’s strength and function while preventing future damage. The crown also seals the tooth from bacteria that could cause reinfection. We typically place a temporary filling immediately after root canal treatment, and you’ll need to return to have a permanent crown placed within a few weeks. At SmileWorks, we coordinate your entire treatment plan to ensure seamless care from root canal through final restoration.
How successful is root canal therapy and how long does it last?
Root canal therapy has a high success rate of approximately 90-95% when performed properly. Most root canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. The success of treatment depends on factors such as the initial condition of the tooth, the completeness of treatment, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene afterward. Regular dental checkups at our Manhattan office allow us to monitor your treated tooth and catch any issues early. With good oral care, a crown to protect the tooth, and regular professional maintenance, your root canal-treated tooth should function normally for many years.
What are the alternatives to root canal therapy?
The main alternative to root canal therapy is tooth extraction followed by replacement with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture. However, saving your natural tooth through root canal treatment is almost always the preferred option. Your natural tooth provides better chewing function and maintains proper jaw alignment compared to artificial replacements. Extraction and replacement procedures are typically more expensive and time-consuming than root canal therapy. Additionally, nothing can completely replace the function and feel of your natural tooth. At SmileWorks, we always explore options to save your natural tooth first, as preserving your original teeth is usually the best choice for your long-term oral health.
How do I care for my tooth after root canal therapy?
Caring for your tooth after root canal therapy is straightforward and similar to caring for your other teeth. Until your permanent crown is placed, avoid chewing on the treated tooth and stick to soft foods to prevent damage to the temporary filling. Once your crown is placed, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash. Avoid very hard foods that could crack your crown, and don’t use your teeth to open packages or bite non-food items. Regular dental checkups and cleanings at SmileWorks help us monitor your treated tooth and maintain your overall oral health. With proper care, your root canal-treated tooth should last for many years.
What are the signs that I might need root canal therapy?
Several warning signs may indicate the need for root canal therapy, though some infected teeth may have no symptoms initially. Common signs include severe toothache when chewing or applying pressure, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, darkening or discoloration of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, or a recurring pimple on the gums near the tooth. You might also experience facial swelling or a persistent bad taste in your mouth. However, some teeth with infected pulp may cause no symptoms at all, which is why regular dental checkups are crucial. At SmileWorks Manhattan, our advanced diagnostic technology can detect problems early, often before you experience pain, allowing for more comfortable and successful treatment.
Schedule Your Root Canal With SmileWorks Today
Don’t let tooth decay and infection compromise your health and comfort. At SmileWorks Manhattan, our gentle approach to root canal therapy has helped thousands of patients save their teeth and eliminate pain. Our cutting edge technology, combined with compassionate care, ensures you receive the best possible endodontic treatment in a comfortable environment.
Visit Us
We’re conveniently located in Midtown East, Manhattan. Find us on the 8th floor of the Grand Central Professional Building. Plenty of nearby parking and public transportation options are available.
- 30 Central Park South Suite #11D New York, NY 10019
- 646-722-1177
- Tues-Fri 9am-6:30pm 1st, 3rd Saturdays 9am-2pm
