Root Canals

Do you have a toothache, visible decay, or extreme hot and cold sensitivity? If you suspect you need a root canal, rely on the experts at Flatlands Dental Care in the Canarsie neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. Skilled dentist Oksana Zak, DDS, and her outstanding team offer same-day root canals to save a severely damaged tooth when time is of the essence. Call the Flatlands Dental Care office to schedule a dental visit, or use the online booking tab today.

What are root canals?

Root canals are restorative dental procedures in which your dentist cleans the inside of an infected or decaying tooth and fills it with dental materials. Root canals can save a painful tooth from falling out or needing extraction. At the first sign of a toothache, swelling, or pus, see the Flatlands Dental Care team for a same-day dental evaluation.

What are the signs I need a root canal?

You may need a root canal if you experience the following symptoms:

• Pus near your gum line
• Tooth pain
• Gum or facial swelling
• Tooth discoloration
• Hot or cold sensitivity
• Visible hole in a tooth
• Cracked tooth

The earlier you seek dental care for an infected tooth, the easier it is to treat. Not getting the treatment you need immediately increases the risk of permanent tooth loss.

Are root canals right for me?

The Flatlands Dental Care team reviews your oral health history and symptoms to determine if a root canal is the right procedure for you. They also take dental X-rays, if needed, and examine your mouth, teeth, and gums.

For minor tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a filling or crown instead of a root canal. The treatment that best suits you depends on the severity of tooth damage, decay, or infection you have.

What happens during root canals?

During root canals, your dentist numbs the affected area of your mouth so you don’t feel discomfort. They also offer a sedative if you have dental anxiety and want to feel more relaxed. Your dentist makes a hole in the top of the affected tooth to access the inside of it. They then clean and disinfect the tooth, fill it with long-lasting dental materials, and seal the tooth closed. 

You might need a crown that fits over the top of a newly restored tooth to protect it and reduce the risk of further oral health problems. Flatlands Dental Care offers same-day crowns, so you don’t have to schedule a separate dental visit.

What should I expect after root canals?

Take good care of a restored tooth after a root canal to avoid further damage. The treated area may feel sensitive for the rest of the day, but you can place ice on it or take over-the-counter pain medicine as directed by your dentist. 

Avoid chewing on hard objects, brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after meals, floss daily, and see the Flatlands Dental Care team every six months.

To find out if you need a root canal, call the Flatlands Dental Care office or schedule an appointment online today.