What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?

Worried a root canal will be painful or complicated? You’re not alone—but the truth may surprise you. For anyone seeking a root canal in Bronxville, NY, should know that this procedure is efficient, gentle, and no more stressful than a standard filling. Let’s break down the steps so you know exactly what to expect—and feel more at ease going in.

Why Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?

Your teeth have layers. On the outside is enamel, followed by dentin, and at the center is the pulp—a soft core made up of nerves and blood vessels. This pulp keeps your tooth alive, but when it gets infected or damaged, the pain can be intense.

Here are a few signs you might need a root canal:

• Pain that doesn’t stop, especially when you chew or apply pressure
• Swollen gums or tenderness near a specific tooth
• Darkening of the tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is gone
• A small bump on your gums near the painful tooth

Overlooking these signs can make the problem worse. If you’re dealing with any of the above, it’s time to visit a dentist in 10708 and get a clear diagnosis. Delaying treatment could mean losing the tooth completely.

Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Root Canal?

Patients who receive care from a dental office offering general dentistry in Bronxville often find that understanding each step of the root canal process helps reduce stress. Knowing what’s coming makes the entire visit feel more manageable.

Step 1: X-rays and Exam

Before anything begins, your dentist will take X-rays to see how deep the damage goes. This helps identify if the infection has spread and how many canals are in the tooth.

Step 2: Numbing the Area

This part surprises many people—root canals aren’t supposed to hurt. The dentist will make the tooth numb and the surrounding area using local anesthesia. You’ll feel pressure but not pain.

Step 3: Creating Access

The dentist will make a tiny opening at the top of your tooth to reach the infected pulp.

Step 4: Removing the Infected Pulp

Using special tools, the dentist carefully removes the pulp, cleans out the canals, and shapes them for filling. This part might take time, especially if your tooth has multiple roots.

Step 5: Cleaning and Disinfecting

The dentist will flush the canals to clear out any remaining bacteria or debris.

Step 6: Filling the Canals

Once clean, the canals are filled up with a material called gutta-percha, which helps keep bacteria out.

Step 7: Sealing the Tooth

A temporary or long-term filling is placed to close the opening. In many cases, a crown is recommended later to protect the tooth from breaking.

Every step is done with care. Our goal is always to keep you relaxed, informed, and comfortable from start to finish.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Treatment length depends on a few things:

• The number of canals in the tooth
• Whether there’s an active infection or swelling
• If you need a crown placed after

On Average:

• Front teeth (with one canal): 30 to 60 minutes
• Molars (with more canals): 90 minutes or split into two visits

If the infection is severe, your dentist might wait a week before sealing the tooth. That’s normal and ensures healing starts before the final steps.

Tips to Speed Up Recovery

Root canal recovery is usually smooth. Still, you can help things along by following a few simple tips.

Eat Soft Foods

Chew on the opposite side of your mouth and stick to softer meals:

• Mashed potatoes
• Eggs
• Soup (not too hot)
• Yogurt

Manage Discomfort

Over-the-counter pain relievers work fine for most patients. You might feel some soreness once the numbing wears off, but it usually fades in a day or two.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Skip anything that could crack or damage the treated tooth, especially if your permanent crown hasn’t been placed yet.

Keep Your Mouth Clean

• Brush (2 times) and floss (1 time) gently around the treated area.
• Cleanse with warm salt water to reduce swelling and speed healing.

Attend Follow-Up Appointments

Your dentist will want to check how you’re healing. This is also when they’ll decide if you need a crown.

Taking care of your mouth after treatment isn’t just about healing—it helps prevent the need for more dental work later.

Final Thoughts

Protect your smile with care you can trust. At Bronxville Dentistry: Michael Aviel DDS, we focus on comfort, clarity, and long-term results. If you’re facing tooth pain or have questions about treatment, don’t wait. Schedule your consultation today—your path to relief and confidence starts here. A healthy smile isn’t just possible—it’s within reach.