Root Canal Treatment in Totowa, NJ
Root canals are needed when decay and bacteria spread for too long without treatment and reach the pulp inside the tooth. Because the pulp contains nerves, an infection there usually causes significant pain. At Dental Arts of Totowa, Dr. Zoya Mitelberg performs gentle root canal therapy that relieves pain, removes infection, and saves your natural tooth for patients in Totowa, NJ.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Since infection happens inside the tooth, you won’t necessarily see the damage. Instead, you may notice:
- Persistent or throbbing tooth pain
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
- Swollen or tender gums near the tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums or bleeding
- Darkening of the tooth
- Bad breath or a bad taste that won’t go away
If you’re in pain, call us at (973) 942-3233 for emergency dental care.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
After confirming the diagnosis with digital X-rays, we numb the tooth and surrounding area completely. Dr. Mitelberg creates a small opening, removes the infected pulp, and carefully cleans and disinfects the canals. The canals are then filled and sealed to prevent reinfection. Most root canals feel similar to receiving a routine filling.
Protecting Your Tooth With a Crown
A tooth that has had a root canal can become brittle over time, especially a back tooth that handles heavy chewing forces. In most cases, we recommend a porcelain crown to strengthen and protect the tooth so it can last for many years.
Why Save Your Natural Tooth?
Saving your tooth with a root canal preserves your natural bite, prevents neighboring teeth from shifting, and is often less costly over time than an extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge.
Root Canal FAQs
Is a root canal painful?
With modern techniques and local anesthesia, a root canal feels much like getting a filling, and it relieves the pain caused by the infection.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one or two visits, depending on the tooth and the extent of the infection.
Will I need a crown after my root canal?
Usually, yes, especially for back teeth. A crown protects the treated tooth from cracking.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
The infection can spread, causing an abscess, bone loss, and eventually the loss of the tooth.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to normal activities the next day. Mild tenderness for a few days is common.
Is a root canal better than pulling the tooth?
Saving your natural tooth is usually the best option for your bite and long-term oral health.
Relieve Tooth Pain and Save Your Tooth
Don’t wait for an infection to get worse. Call Dental Arts of Totowa at (973) 942-3233 or request an appointment online.