Root Canal Therapy
in New York City

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal treatment is designed to eliminate infection while preserving the natural tooth structure. By removing bacteria and sealing the inner portion of the tooth, the procedure restores strength and function while preventing the infection from spreading to surrounding tissues.

Patients often experience several benefits after treatment, including relief from persistent tooth pain, improved chewing ability, and protection of neighboring teeth from shifting. Because the natural tooth remains in place, root canal therapy also helps maintain normal bite alignment and jaw health.

Reasons for Root Canal Therapy

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth)
• Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip
• Injury or trauma to the tooth

Signs and Symptoms You May Need Root Canal Therapy

• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Severe toothache pain
• Swelling and/or tenderness

Sometimes, no symptoms are present.

Root Canal Procedure Details

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.

At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.

You will be given care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.

What Is the Recovery Time for Root Canal Therapy?

Despite the invasive nature of the root canal procedure, it often takes less than a week to recover. You can expect some swelling and sensitivity when chewing, but you should feel normal within a couple of days of your root canal.

Our NYC office will provide care instructions that include how to manage discomfort. You may need to eat a soft-food diet for several days, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and pasta. Try not to chew on the side of your mouth with the treated tooth.

Do not smoke after a root canal. Smoking makes it harder for your tooth and root system to heal and may cause additional discomfort and healing complications. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep bacteria away from the site and brush your teeth after every meal.

Your oral tissues may heal faster if you avoid hot liquids until the anesthetic wears off, because you won’t be able to sense if the temperature is too high. Take medications as recommended and avoid inflammation-causing foods, such as heavy spices and alcohol.

How Long Does a Root Canal Last?

Make sure you have your temporary crown replaced with a permanent restoration to avoid further risking the tooth and root. The tooth is still vulnerable if the permanent crown is not placed or positioned correctly.

Why Choose New York Smile Institute for Root Canal Therapy?

Patients trust New York Smile Institute for comprehensive dental care that prioritizes both comfort and long-term oral health. Our doctors combine advanced diagnostic technology with proven treatment techniques to ensure infections are treated thoroughly and effectively.

We focus on preserving natural teeth whenever possible, providing personalized treatment plans that restore function while maintaining the integrity of your smile. Our NYC practice offers a professional, patient-focused environment where care is tailored to each individual’s needs.

Learn More About Root Canal Therapy at New York Smile Institute

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of infection, schedule a dental exam with our outstanding dentists at New York Smile Institute. Our team has helped many patients in NYC improve their oral health with root canal therapy.

Schedule a consultation at our New York, New York office by calling (212) 319-6363.

Root Canal Therapy FAQs

Does a root canal hurt?

Modern root canal therapy is designed to relieve pain rather than cause it. The procedure is performed with local anesthesia to keep the tooth completely numb, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during treatment. Afterward, mild sensitivity may occur for a few days as the surrounding tissue heals.

How long does a root canal procedure take?

The length of the procedure depends on the tooth being treated and the complexity of the infection. In many cases, a root canal can be completed in one appointment lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. More complex cases may require two visits to ensure the tooth is fully cleaned and properly sealed.

Can I return to normal activities after a root canal?

You can resume normal daily activities shortly after the procedure. Because the treated tooth may be temporarily sensitive, you may wish to avoid chewing on that side of the mouth until the final restoration, such as a crown, is placed.

Why is a crown often recommended after a root canal?

A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy may become more fragile over time because the internal nerve tissue has been removed. A crown helps strengthen and protect the tooth from fractures while restoring normal chewing function.

What happens if I delay a root canal treatment?

Delaying treatment can allow infection to spread deeper into the tooth and surrounding bone. This may lead to increased pain, swelling, or even tooth loss. Addressing the problem early allows dentists to remove the infection and preserve the natural tooth structure whenever possible.