Medically reviewed by Dr. Boris Pinhasov, DDS, American Board of Orthodontics Diplomate | 20+ Years Experience | Last Updated: April 2026
Yes, you can get a root canal while wearing braces, and timing matters. The endodontist can access the tooth without removing the brackets in most cases, and your orthodontic treatment continues without delay. With expert insight from Dr. Boris Pinhasov, Board-Certified Orthodontist and ABO Diplomate at BP Smiles Orthodontics in Queens, NY, here is how root canals and braces work together, three timing scenarios, and what to expect.
Braces are a well-known solution for straightening teeth and addressing alignment issues. However, what happens if a tooth requires additional care, such as a root canal, while you have braces? Patients often wonder how such procedures work during orthodontic treatment.
Dr. Boris Pinhasov explains, “If a tooth has an issue, patients can safely have a root canal even during orthodontic care. Braces don’t prevent this important procedure. Orthodontists and dentists work closely to ensure a seamless process for patients undergoing both treatments.”
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure that treats infections or damage deep inside a tooth. Each tooth contains soft tissue called pulp, which can become infected or injured. During the procedure, your dentist removes the damaged pulp, cleans the area, and seals the tooth to protect it.
Do Orthodontists Do Root Canals?
No. Orthodontists specialize in tooth alignment and bite correction; root canal therapy (endodontic treatment) is performed by an endodontist or by a general dentist. If you need a root canal during orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist coordinates with your endodontist on timing and bracket access. At BP Smiles Orthodontics, Dr. Pinhasov regularly works with Queens-area endodontists to schedule treatment in the order that protects both your tooth and your braces progress.
Can You Have a Root Canal with Braces?
Absolutely. Root canal treatments and braces can work together seamlessly. While braces realign your teeth, root canals address problems with an infected tooth. The two procedures won’t interfere with each other.
Orthodontists and dentists often work together to make the process seamless. If you need a root canal during your braces treatment, your orthodontist will adjust your braces as needed to accommodate the procedure.
Symptoms That May Signal a Root Canal is Needed
Monitoring your dental health is important during orthodontic treatment, as early intervention can prevent complications. Watch for these signs:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Swelling around the gums
- A small bump on the gums
- Darkening of a tooth
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t delay. Schedule a visit with your dentist or orthodontist. At BP Smiles NY, we emphasize regular check-ups to catch and address potential problems early.
Will a Root Canal Impact Your Braces Treatment?
A root canal generally does not interfere with your orthodontic treatment plan. Your orthodontist will adjust your treatment as necessary. For instance, if a tooth is too sensitive or painful, they may temporarily pause adjustments on that tooth. After the root canal is finished and the tooth is stable, orthodontic treatment continues as usual.
How Root Canals and Braces Work Together
If you have braces, your orthodontist might need to remove certain wires or brackets near the affected tooth to provide access to the root canal. After the procedure is complete, they’ll reattach the braces and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your treatment progresses smoothly.
At BP Smiles NY, we prioritize your comfort and ensure seamless coordination with your dentist to provide the best possible care.
Why Braces Can Still Move a Tooth After a Root Canal
This is a question that comes up at nearly every consultation where a patient has a root-canaled tooth: “If the nerve is gone, how can the tooth still move?”
The answer is in what braces actually do. Braces do not move teeth by pushing on the nerve. They apply gentle, continuous force that compresses one side of the periodontal ligament
A root canal removes the nerve and blood supply from the inside of the tooth, but it does not affect the periodontal ligament, the surrounding bone, or the tooth’s ability to move through that bone. A root-canaled tooth has everything it needs to respond to orthodontic forces normally. One practical difference: root-canaled teeth can become slightly more brittle over time because they no longer receive internal blood supply. Dr. Boris accounts for this by applying gentler force levels on root-canaled teeth during treatment, a standard protocol in experienced orthodontic offices. From the patient’s perspective, there is no noticeable difference in treatment experience. Patients usually ask about root canals and braces in one of three situations. Here is what we typically recommend in each. This is the most straightforward situation. Your dentist finds an infection or damage during a routine visit, and you are also planning to start orthodontic treatment for a separate alignment issue. Complete the root canal first and give the tooth a few weeks to heal. Then begin your orthodontic treatment. The root-canaled tooth will move normally under braces because the periodontal ligament, the tissue holding the tooth in the bone, is still intact. Only the nerve inside the tooth was removed. If you want to start planning right away, you can still have your initial consultation with Dr. Boris while the root canal is being completed. We will build your treatment plan and be ready to start once your dentist clears you. This happens occasionally. A tooth that was healthy when braces went on develops pain during treatment, or a pre-existing issue becomes acute while you are already wearing brackets and wires. You do not need to stop your orthodontic treatment. The root canal can be performed with braces still on. Your dentist may need to work around the brackets, and we may temporarily remove a bracket to give them access to the tooth. After the root canal is complete, we re-bond the bracket and resume treatment without losing progress. Coordination between your dentist and our office matters here. Call BP Smiles at (718) 290-9444 as soon as your dentist recommends a root canal so we can coordinate the timing. Most patients do not miss any meaningful orthodontic progress. Less common, but it happens. You have finished orthodontic treatment, you are wearing retainers, and then a dental issue requires a root canal. Get the root canal from your dentist as recommended. Your retainers will still fit the treated tooth because a root canal does not change the shape or position of the crown of the tooth. Keep wearing your retainers as prescribed. The root canal has no effect on orthodontic retention. At BP Smiles NY, we care about more than just braces, we collaborate closely with local dentists to ensure your overall dental health is prioritized. Whether you need traditional braces, Invisalign, or assistance with a dental issue, we’re here to help. Our team works closely with local dentists to keep your treatment on track. Having braces doesn’t complicate a root canal; in fact, your orthodontist and dentist will work together to ensure everything proceeds smoothly. With the right care and guidance, you can continue your orthodontic treatment without delays. If you’re in Flushing, Queens, or nearby areas such as Oakland Gardens, Jamaica, Queens Village, Jamaica Estates, Saint Albans, or Rosedale, schedule a complimentary consultation to learn how we can help you achieve a healthy smile. Typically, a root canal requires one or two appointments, just like for patients without braces. Your dentist and orthodontist will coordinate to make the process as seamless as possible. Common signs include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, or discoloration. If you notice these symptoms, contact your dentist or orthodontist right away. No, a root canal strengthens your tooth by removing infected tissue and sealing it. In some cases, a crown may be added to restore the tooth’s strength and appearance. Take action promptly by consulting your dentist or orthodontist. Rest assured, both professionals will work together to provide the care you need. At BP Smiles NY, we’re here to guide you through any dental concerns. Yes! Braces don’t prevent you from getting fillings, cleanings, or other treatments. Coordinate with your dentist and orthodontist to ensure the best care. Yes. A tooth that has had a root canal can still be moved with braces or Invisalign. The periodontal ligament (the tissue around the tooth root that allows movement) is still alive and functional after the procedure. Movement may be slightly slower for root canal teeth, and the orthodontist plans the force levels accordingly. Crowned teeth follow a similar protocol. For Invisalign patients, the timing is even simpler. You remove your aligners for the root canal appointment, the endodontist treats the tooth normally, and you replace your aligners afterward. No bracket access issues. If you are still waiting for your first set of trays, schedule the root canal during the 2-week tray-arrival window so treatment continues uninterrupted. Medically reviewed by Dr. Boris Pinhasov, Board-Certified Orthodontist. This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.Timing Your Treatment: Three Common Scenarios
Scenario 1: You Need a Root Canal Before Starting Braces
Scenario 2: You Need a Root Canal While Already in Braces
Scenario 3: You Need a Root Canal After Finishing Braces
Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy with Braces
What Sets BP Smiles NY Apart?
Get Braces and Root Canal Care in Queens, NY With Dr. Boris Pinhasov
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