Root Canals in St. Petersburg, FL

Quick Facts

Treating pediatric patients 8+

Accepting new patients

Bilingual

Hours

Monday

8:00am - 4:00pm

Tuesday

8:00am - 4:00pm

Wednesday

8:00am - 4:00pm

Thursday

8:00am - 4:00pm

Friday

8:00am - 4:00pm

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal, or root canal therapy, is a dental procedure designed to treat infections within the pulp of a tooth caused by cracks in the tooth or extensive decay. The pulp, located in the tooth’s center, contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. During a root canal, the infected or inflamed pulp is removed, the space is cleaned thoroughly, and the tooth is sealed, preserving its structure and function. Filling the tooth preserves it and helps prevent reinfection and saving natural teeth.

Root canal treatment helps alleviate pain, restore oral health, and prevent the need for tooth extraction. At Smile Design Dentistry, our experienced team employs advanced techniques to ensure a comfortable and effective experience for our patients.

How Do You Know If Your Tooth Needs a Root Canal?

Your tooth might need a root canal if you’re experiencing the following symptoms:

Persistent Toothache: Unrelenting tooth pain, especially during chewing or biting, could mean that bacteria has reached the pulp of your tooth.
Sensitivity to Temperature: Heightened or lasting sensitivity to hot or cold substances may indicate inflammation of the tooth’s pulp.
Swelling and Discomfort: Swollen gums or the development of a pimple on the gums near the affected tooth are potential signs of infection.

You might also require a root canal if you have a

Gum Abscess: Bacteria at the tip of your dental root could develop into a gum abscess, a small pus-filled sore on your gums.
Discolored Tooth: A dental infection may create internal discoloration of a single tooth. Typically, this discoloration will have a dark gray tint.
Dark Spot on your X-rays: In some cases, you may not experience a toothache or any other symptoms, but your x-rays could reveal an infected dental root.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth: A cracked tooth may have undergone trauma to its roots and could potentially be saved by doing a root canal.

If you’ve experienced any of these signs or symptoms of tooth distress, it’s crucial to seek a professional dental evaluation. Smile Design Dentistry uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately assess your dental health and determine whether you need root canal therapy.

$49 New Patient Special — includes exam & digital x-ray! Most insurances are accepted.

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The Benefits of Getting Your Root Canal at Smile Design Dentistry in St. Petersburg

Family-owned and operated, Smile Design provides personalized attention for each of our patients by building strong, trusting relationships based on listening to your needs. At Smile Design, you’ll receive first rate dental care during your root canal treatment, including the following benefits:

Skilled Professionals: Our team consists of highly trained general dentists and experienced endodontists, dental professionals who specialize in root canal procedures and ensure the highest quality of care.

Advanced Techniques: We employ cutting-edge dental procedures and technology to enhance the precision and efficiency of root canal treatments.

Patient Comfort: At Smile Design Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort throughout the procedure. We use gentle techniques and safe and effective anesthetics while also providing a calming environment.

Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient is unique, and so are their dental needs. We ensure that you get dental treatment tailored to your specific situation.

Comprehensive Care: Beyond root canal therapy and other specialized treatments, we offer comprehensive dental services to ensure continuity of care after your procedure.

Choosing Smile Design Dentistry for your root canal means choosing a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional care every step of the way.

Root Canals FAQs

How many dental visits will my root canal require?

The number of visits for root canal therapy can vary, depending on the complexity of the case and the severity of the infection being treated. In most cases, a standard root canal treatment is completed in one to two visits. During the first visit, your general dentist or endodontist performs the root canal and seals the tooth. A second visit may be required if a custom permanent crown needs to be placed on your tooth.

How long does a root canal take?

On average, a root canal takes approximately 1 hour. More complex cases may require up to 90 minutes. The length of the procedure depends on the severity of the infection and the type of tooth being treated.

How painful is a root canal?

Contrary to common misconceptions, modern root canal procedures are relatively painless. With the use of local anesthesia, patients typically experience minimal discomfort during the treatment.

Do I need a crown as part of my root canal treatment?

Typically, a crown is recommended after a root canal to a premolar or molar. While the root canal procedure removes the infected pulp and preserves the tooth’s structure, a crown adds an extra layer of protection. It strengthens the treated tooth, preventing potential fractures and enhancing its longevity.

How long do root canals last?

Root canals are typically a long-lasting solution to dental issues. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a well-done root canal can last 10 years or longer.

What are the risks of root canal therapy?

While root canals are generally safe, there can be rare complications such as a cracked tooth or recurrence of infection.

Are there alternatives to a root canal?

In some cases, alternatives such as tooth extraction or dental implants may be recommended, but they come with their own considerations. At Smile Design Dentistry, we carefully evaluate each patient’s unique situation to determine the most suitable treatment, discussing all available options and guiding you toward the best choice for your oral health.

How do I care for my tooth after a root canal?

After a root canal, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Attend follow-up appointments, and avoid chewing on hard substances. Our team provides post-treatment guidance, ensuring your treated tooth remains healthy and functional for years to come.

How soon after a root canal can I eat or drink?

You can typically eat or drink soon after a root canal, but it’s advisable to wait a few hours until the anesthesia wears off to avoid accidental bites or burns.

What happens if I don’t get a needed root canal?

If you neglect a needed root canal, the infection can spread, leading to severe pain, abscess formation, and potential tooth loss. Abscesses, in particular, can be very dangerous; if left untreated, an abscess may even lead to death.

Root Canals in St. Petersburg (4th Street North), FL

Quick Facts

Location

Hours

What Is a Root Canal?

How Do You Know If Your Tooth Needs a Root Canal?

The Benefits of Getting Your Root Canal at Smile Design Dentistry in St. Petersburg

Root Canals FAQs