Root Canals Specialist
Robert G. Veligdan, DMD, PC
Cosmetic & General Dentist located in Columbus Circle, Midtown West, Hell's Kitchen, New York, NY
When you experience extreme pain every time you chew or drink hot and cold beverages, a root canal might be what you need to fix the problem. The procedure removes the pain without sacrificing the tooth. Dr. Robert G. Veligdan, a cosmetic dentist with over 37 years of experience, performs root canals to help patients in the Manhattan, New York City, area live pain-free lives without losing their beautiful smiles. Book your appointment online or call today to get started.
Root Canals Q & A
Why do I need a root canal?
A root canal saves your tooth and maintains your natural smile. Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called pulp. The pulp connects to your blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can be painful.
Left untreated, the pain increases, an abscess can develop, but ultimately, you may lose your tooth to decay. Your adult tooth can survive without the infected pulp, so a root canal procedure is performed to remove the pulp and replace it with filler.
What causes pulp to become infected?
The pulp may become inflamed or infected from deep decay or repeated dental procedures. For example, a defective crown can leave the pulp vulnerable to bacteria and damage. Sometimes the damage is noticeable, like when the tooth is chipped, cracked, or broken. But other times, the trauma is invisible but still damages the pulp.
What is the root canal procedure like?
Dr. Veligdan takes X-rays of your teeth for a thorough understanding of the damage. He provides a local anesthetic to numb the area and prevent pain during the procedure. He starts by removing the infected pulp, then fully cleans and disinfects the inside.
Then the tooth is filled and sealed with a rubber-like material. Finally, he fills the tooth or restores it with a crown. After the procedure, the treated tooth functions just like any other in your mouth.
How long do root canals last?
A tooth that has been treated by a root canal can last a lifetime, but it requires consistent care. For lasting root canal results, good oral hygiene is a must. Dr. Veligdan recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day, followed by flossing at least once a day. He encourages you to maintain your regular dental cleanings and checkups.
If you’re suffering from extreme tooth pain, a root canal can relieve the discomfort. Book your appointment online or call Dr. Veligdan today for your consultation.