Our Services / Root Canals

Each year, many people undergo root canal therapy. This quick and pain-free procedure can safely preserve a damaged or decaying tooth, preventing the need for an extraction. At his practice, experienced general and cosmetic dentist Daniel Wank, DDS, regularly performs root canals. The process is safe, effective, and provides lasting results. To make an appointment for root canal treatment, call the office on the Upper East Side, New York City, New York, or book online today.

What are root canals?

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the pulp (a soft substance that contains nerves and blood vessels) from the center of a damaged or decaying tooth. By removing the pulp and replacing it with a synthetic material, Dr. Wank may be able to eliminate the pain and preserve your natural tooth.

When are root canals necessary?

Dr. Wank uses root canals to treat tooth pulp that’s infected or inflamed due to:

• Untreated cavities
• Chips and cracks
• Blows to the mouth
• Extensive dental work

If you experience tooth pain or a sensation of heat or swelling in your gums, it’s important to contact Dr. Wank’s office right away.

Do root canals take more than one visit?

Root canal therapy requires two visits to Dr. Wank’s office about a week apart.

First root canal visit

At your first visit, Dr. Wank conducts an oral exam and takes digital X-rays. Next, he numbs your mouth and carefully removes the infected or inflamed pulp from the center of your tooth. Dr. Wank then cleans your tooth out with an antiseptic rinse and fills it with a synthetic material called gutta-percha.

After the synthetic material dries, Dr. Wank takes impressions of your tooth and sends them over to a dental lab, where the lab will create your permanent crown. In the meantime, he covers your tooth with a temporary crown.

Second root canal visit

About a week later, you return to Dr. Wank’s office. Dr. Wank removes your temporary crown and replaces it with the permanent one. Then, he polishes your teeth and provides after-care instructions.

What is recovery like after a root canal?

After your root canal treatment, you may experience increased tooth sensitivity. Take anti-inflammatory medication when necessary and avoid biting down on your temporary crown. 

However, you can return to work and other activities right away. There’s no downtime or extended recovery period required.

Are root canals safe?

Root canals are a safe treatment and usually well-tolerated. Dr. Wank administers local anesthesia before treating your tooth, ensuring the procedure is comfortable and pain-free. After treatment, it’s possible to experience an infection, but you can significantly lower your risk by following Dr. Wank’s recovery instructions carefully and practicing good oral hygiene.

To make an appointment for root canal treatment, call the office of Daniel Wank, DDS, in New York City, New York, or book online today.