Root Canal

What is a Root Canal?

Hearing the words “root canal” might make you nervous. But the truth is, it’s not as bad as you think! A lot of patients fear root canals because they don’t fully understand what’s involved. But in reality, this procedure relieves the pain you are already feeling.

Thanks to modern dentistry, getting a root canal is about as comfortable as getting a cavity filled. At Bella Smiles, Dr. Sal Lotardo performs root canal procedures to treat infections and save teeth. If you’re dealing with a painful tooth, a root canal might be exactly what you need to feel better and protect your smile.

Why Would I Need a Root Canal?

A patient will need a root canal when the soft tissue inside a tooth, called the pulp, has a deep infection. This usually happens when bacteria sneak in through a deep cavity, crack, or chip in your tooth. The infection can spread without treatment, leading to a painful abscess. A serious infection can affect your overall health, cause pain, and even gum disease.

Here are some signs you might need a root canal:

Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
Pain when chewing or biting down
Swollen or tender gums near the tooth
Darkening of the tooth

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait to schedule an exam. Dr. Lotardo will check your tooth and let you know if a root canal is the best solution. If needed, he may refer you to an endodontist, a specialist in treating the inside of teeth.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

A root canal is a straightforward, pain-relieving procedure that usually takes one or two visits. Here’s what you can expect:

Numbing the Area: First, your dentist will start by numbing your tooth with a local anesthetic. You won’t feel anything during the procedure and still be able to communicate.
Removing the Infection: Next, he makes a small opening in the tooth. He will carefully remove the infected pulp from inside the root canals.
Cleaning and Sealing the Tooth: Once the infection is cleared out, he cleans the empty space. Then he fills it with a biocompatible resin to protect the tooth. In some cases, he may place a tiny metal rod inside to provide extra support.
Restoring the Tooth: To keep your tooth strong and protected, a dental crown is usually placed over it. This brings back the natural look and function of your tooth. It also helps you chew without pain and smile confidently again.

Any swelling or discomfort should go away within a few days. Your tooth will feel good as new!

Saving Your Smile with a Root Canal

A root canal does more than just stop pain. It saves your natural tooth and prevents the need for an extraction. A tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime with the best care.

If you think you might need a root canal, don’t wait until the pain gets worse. Call Bella Smiles today to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help you feel comfortable, informed, and pain-free every step of the way.

To schedule a dental exam, you can call our Nesconset, NY office at (631) 228-8780, our Riverhead, NY office at (631) 574-3898, or our Roslyn, NY office at (516) 217-6668.