Root Canals

If you have severe tooth decay or an infection, a root canal is sometimes the best way to save the affected tooth. At Mamkin Dentistry Aesthetic & Restorative Center in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Queens, in New York City, highly trained dentist Mariya Mamkin, DDS, and her team offer root canals for patients of all ages to restore teeth that might otherwise fall out. Schedule an appointment by phone or request one online today at the first sign of tooth pain.

What are root canals?

Root canals are dental procedures that restore the inside of a tooth that’s painful, infected, or severely damaged. The treatment involves removing the pulp of the affected tooth, cleaning it, and replacing it with restorative materials. Root canals help reduce pain and prevent permanent tooth loss or the need for extraction.

What indicates I might need a root canal?

Your dentist determines if you’re a candidate for root canals. The following signs and symptoms may indicate the need for this type of treatment:

• Tooth pain
• Tooth discoloration
• Damaged tooth
• Pus near the gumline
• Hot or cold sensitivity
• Facial or gum swelling
• Aching

Your symptoms may begin as mild and become more severe if left untreated. The sooner you seek dental care, the easier tooth problems are to treat. 

Is a root canal right for me?

The Mamkin Dentistry Aesthetic & Restorative Center team discusses your oral health history and symptoms to determine if you need a root canal. They also take dental X-rays to obtain images of the area inside and beneath the affected tooth to know the best way to fully restore it and minimize the risk of complications. 

What happens during a root canal?

The Mamkin Dentistry Aesthetic & Restorative Center team numbs the treatment area to eliminate any pain. They create a tiny hole in the top of your tooth to gain access to the inside of it and remove the infected pulp. Your dentist then cleans and disinfects the area, fills the empty space with dental materials, and seals the tooth closed. 

You might receive a crown, or dental cap, that fits over the top of a newly restored tooth to strengthen and protect it from future damage.

What should I expect after a root canal?

After undergoing a root canal, you can resume a typical daily routine. The treated tooth may be sensitive for a day or two. It’s important to protect your teeth by eating a healthy diet, not chewing on hard objects, and bruising and flossing regularly. See the Mamkin Dentistry Aesthetic & Restorative Center team at least every six months for dental exams and cleanings.

Schedule an evaluation at Mamkin Dentistry Aesthetic & Restorative Center by phone or request one online today to determine if you need a root canal.