Endodontics NYC
Root Canal or Extraction in NYC: how to choose the right fix for tooth pain
Tooth pain can stop your day. This guide walks you through when a root canal saves the tooth, when extraction makes sense, and how New York City patients can pick the right path with an endodontist.
Key takeaways
- Endodontists treat the inside of teeth and aim to keep your natural tooth whenever possible.
- Root canal therapy removes infection, relieves pressure, and seals canals so the tooth can keep working.
- Extraction can be a fit for fractures below the gum or teeth with very little structure left to support a crown.
- CBCT scans, an operating microscope, and rubber dam isolation raise accuracy and safety.
- Ask for a written plan that lists steps, visits, and the handoff to your general dentist for the final crown or replacement.
When saving the tooth is best
Deep decay with lingering pain
Hot or cold that lingers often means inflamed pulp. Root canal therapy removes the inflamed tissue and seals the tooth.
Abscess or gum pimple
A small bump on the gum, swelling, or tenderness can point to a periapical abscess. Cleaning and sealing the canals stops the source.
Prior root canal that flared up
Endodontic retreatment finds missed or blocked canals, replaces old materials, and disinfects again so healing can continue.
When removal may be better
Fracture below the gum
A vertical root fracture or a crack that runs under bone has a poor outlook. Removal with a plan for replacement is often advised.
Tooth cannot support a crown
If there is not enough tooth above the gum for a good seal, extraction with implant or bridge planning may serve you better.
Severe periodontal loss
Advanced bone loss around roots can limit success. Your endodontist and periodontist can review options together.
Root canal vs extraction: treatment steps compared
Root canal therapy
- 1Numb and isolate Local anesthesia, rubber dam, and microscope setup.
- 2Clean and shape Rotary NiTi files, irrigation with sodium hypochlorite and EDTA, ultrasonic activation.
- 3Seal Warm vertical obturation with gutta-percha and a bioceramic sealer, then a temporary or core build.
- 4Finish Your general dentist places the crown to protect the tooth.
Extraction and replacement
- 1Remove the tooth Numb the area, remove the tooth, and manage the site.
- 2Plan replacement Options include dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
- 3Healing time Implants and grafting add healing phases before a crown is placed.
- 4Final restoration An implant crown, bridge, or clasped partial restores the space.
Tools and technique checklist for NYC endodontics
- Operating microscope for canal location and crack detection.
- Digital X-rays and CBCT for anatomy and hidden canals.
- Rubber dam isolation to keep saliva out of the tooth during treatment.
- Modern irrigation sodium hypochlorite, EDTA, and ultrasonic or sonic activation.
- Warm vertical obturation gutta-percha with a bioceramic sealer such as MTA-based materials.
- Clear handoff written notes and images to your general dentist for the crown or final restoration.
Aftercare and timelines
Root canal recovery
Mild soreness is common for a few days. Most patients return to normal routines the same day. Use over-the-counter pain relief as directed and schedule your crown soon if needed.
Extraction recovery
Plan for rest the day of the procedure. Follow the instructions for gauze, ice, and diet. If an implant is planned, your dentist will map out healing visits and the timing for the final crown.
How to choose an endodontist in NYC
- Access Ask about same-day visits for pain and early morning or evening slots near Midtown, FiDi, Uptown, Queens, or Brooklyn.
- Experience Residency in endodontics and a practice limited to root canal care.
- Equipment Microscope in every operatory, digital X-rays, and CBCT when needed.
- Technique Rubber dam isolation, activated irrigation, and bioceramic sealers.
- Communication Written plan with fees, photos on screen, and fast reports to your general dentist.
FAQ
Will I feel the procedure
You should feel pressure but not sharp pain once the tooth is numb. Tell the team if you feel anything and they will place more anesthesia.
Do I always need a crown after a root canal
Back teeth usually need a crown to prevent cracks. Front teeth may be restored with a bonded filling when structure is strong.
Are antibiotics required
Antibiotics are used for spreading infection or fever. Cleaning and sealing the canals is what solves most toothaches.
How long does a visit take
Many cases finish in about 60 to 90 minutes. Retreatment and complex molars can take longer or be split into two visits.