Root Canals in NYC

Root canal treatment has an outdated reputation for being painful—in reality, it’s the procedure that relieves the pain caused by an infected or damaged tooth, while allowing you to keep that tooth rather than losing it. Dr. Alex Gause performs root canal treatment using detailed CBCT imaging to guide precise, effective care.

If tooth pain is interrupting your day, contact Dr. Gause, NYC’s premier dentist, for a prompt evaluation and a plan focused on saving the tooth whenever possible.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth and seals the resulting space to prevent further infection. It’s typically needed when:

  • Decay has progressed deep into a tooth
  • When a tooth has been cracked or traumatized
  • When repeated dental procedures on the same tooth have irritated the pulp beyond recovery

Contrary to its reputation, a root canal itself is what relieves the intense pain associated with an infected tooth. The infection is the source of discomfort, not the treatment. Once the infected pulp is removed and the tooth is sealed, most patients experience significant relief.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Relieves pain at its source

For a tooth with an infected or inflamed pulp, a root canal addresses the actual cause of the pain—not just the symptoms—typically providing lasting relief once treatment is complete.

Saves your natural tooth

The alternative to a root canal is usually extraction. Keeping your natural tooth preserves your bite, avoids the need for a bridge or implant to fill the gap, and maintains the natural spacing and alignment of your remaining teeth.

More precise treatment with CBCT imaging

Because root canal anatomy can be genuinely complex, three-dimensional imaging gives Dr. Gause a far clearer picture than a standard two-dimensional X-ray, supporting more thorough and effective treatment.

Stops the spread of infection

Left untreated, an infected tooth doesn’t resolve on its own—the infection can spread to surrounding tissue and bone, leading to more serious complications. A root canal addresses the infection directly, preventing it from progressing further.

A more comfortable procedure

With modern local anesthesia and a precise, well-planned approach, most patients find root canal treatment far more comfortable than its reputation suggests—often no more involved than getting a filling.

Protects your investment in your smile

For patients who’ve had cosmetic or restorative work done, saving a natural tooth through root canal treatment, rather than needing an implant or bridge, is often the more conservative option, both in terms of cost and long-term maintenance.

Tooth-Saving Root Canals at Gause Dentistry in the Heart of New York City

A root canal saves your tooth, allowing you to keep necessary tooth structure and your tooth root in place, which is the best result for your smile.

At Gause Dentistry, root canal treatment is supported by CBCT imaging, which provides a detailed three-dimensional view of the tooth’s root canal anatomy before treatment begins. Root canal systems can be more complex than a standard X-ray reveals. CBCT helps ensure Dr. Gause has a complete picture before starting treatment.

After a root canal, the tooth is typically restored with a crown, particularly for back teeth that bear significant biting force, since a tooth that’s had its pulp removed can become more brittle over time.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Persistent tooth pain

Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers

Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a specific tooth

A tooth that’s darkened in color

These can all be signs your tooth is damaged or infected. Schedule a virtual consultation to speak with Dr. Gause if you are experiencing any of these signs.

About the Doctor

Specializing in dental implants and clear aligner treatment, Dr. Gause is a distinguished graduate of the Kois Center in Seattle, where he received advanced training in comprehensive oral rehabilitation. He is also a Key Opinion Leader for Dentsply Sirona SureSmile aligners and is a sought-after national lecturer on dental implantology and digital implant workflows.

Save Your Natural Tooth With Timely Care

Choose care designed around more than a quick fix. Learn more about the pain relief and improved oral health that a root canal can offer. Schedule a visit at our New York City office with Dr. Alex Gause today.