Oviedo Root Canal Treatment

Root Canals in Oviedo, FL

Oviedo Family & Cosmetic Dentistry has more than 25 years of experience in root canal therapy and related procedures. We combine caring service and the latest technology to restore your oral health.

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to eliminate infection from the root canal and save the natural tooth. The procedure has several health benefits and is generally less expensive than other endodontic treatments associated with tooth extractions.

During root canal treatment, the pulp and surrounding soft tissue inside of a tooth are removed as the inside of a tooth is cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed. This treatment effectively eliminates bacteria from the infected root canal, protecting the tooth from reinfection.

The Root Canal Process

Root canal treatment is a relatively painless and effective procedure that removes infection beneath the white enamel of a tooth. The procedure is similar to a routine filling and is usually completed in one or two appointments, depending on tooth condition and a patient’s circumstances.

A natural tooth contains soft tissue called pulp. The pulp contains nerves and connective tissue that assist the tooth during early development. After a tooth has fully developed, the pulp can be removed safely during a root canal without causing damage to the surrounding tissues.

During a root canal, your dentist will:

Clean the Root Canal

Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic before drilling a small hole in the tooth. Small files remove the dead or infected pulp and anything within the root canal. Nerve tissue is also removed, meaning that you will no longer experience pain in the tooth.

Fill the Root Canal

After the root canal is cleaned and disinfected, your dentist will shape the inside of the tooth and refill the area with sponge-like material. The open root canal is then filled with an adhesive cement to seal the tooth.

Add a Crown

A dental crown is needed to reinforce the fragile enamel of a tooth after a root canal. Until a permanent crown is applied to the tooth, a patient should avoid chewing in that area. After the crown is installed, the patient can resume normal eating habits.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

When a patient notices that their teeth are abnormally sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, root canal therapy may be required. Root canals may also be needed due to cracks in tooth enamel caused by facial injury, tooth decay, previous fillings, or genetics.

A patient may experience a few common symptoms that could indicate a root canal is needed:

• Abnormal sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Damage to tooth enamel like cracks and chips
• Inflamed, swollen, or sensitive gums
• Pain while chewing
• Tooth decay

The Advantages of Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment will save the natural tooth and provide other health benefits to your oral health and appearance. These benefits include:

• Maintaining natural appearance
• Preventing tooth loss
• Effective chewing
• Protecting other teeth from damage
• Maintaining normal sensation

Scheduling Your Treatment

Fortunately, many dental insurance companies provide partial coverage for endodontic treatments like root canals. Further, the restoration of a natural tooth by root canal treatment is generally much less expensive than other treatments that require tooth extractions with an implant or bridge.

If you would like to know more about root canal treatment or wish to schedule an initial consultation with Oviedo Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, please contact one of our team members at (407) 366-3799.