Root Canal Treatment in St. Petersburg, FL

What Is a Root Canal?

Inside each tooth is a space called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed — from deep decay, a crack, or injury — it can cause pain and, if left untreated, can lead to an abscess.

Root canal treatment removes the infected or inflamed tissue from inside the tooth, cleans the space, and seals it. The goal is to save the tooth.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Common signs that a tooth may need root canal treatment include:

• Lasting tooth pain that does not go away on its own
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
• Swelling or tenderness near a tooth
• A darkened tooth

Only an Exam Can Tell for Sure

These signs can also be caused by other dental problems. The only way to know whether you need a root canal is an exam and x-rays. If you have tooth pain, call us at (727) 327-5561.

Why Save the Tooth?

Keeping your natural tooth helps you chew normally and keeps nearby teeth from shifting into the gap. Root canal treatment, when followed by a crown, can allow a tooth to function for many years.

When a tooth cannot be saved, extraction is an option. Dr. del Rosario will look at ways to save the tooth first and explain your options.

What to Expect

Your visit begins with an exam and x-rays. Dr. del Rosario will review the x-rays with you and explain what is involved before anything is done.

The area is numbed with local anesthetic. Once you are comfortable, the infected tissue is removed from inside the tooth, the space is cleaned, and the tooth is sealed. Most patients find the procedure more comfortable than they expected.

We give you the cost before treatment begins.

Nervous About Your Appointment?

Conscious sedation is available for adults at Grand Central Smiles. If you feel anxious about dental treatment, ask about sedation options when you call.

After Treatment: Protecting the Tooth

Many teeth need a crown after root canal treatment to protect them from cracking. Dr. del Rosario will let you know whether a crown is recommended for your tooth.

Follow your aftercare instructions and call us if pain or swelling gets worse instead of better.

Root Canal or Extraction?

We look at ways to save the tooth first. When a tooth cannot be saved, extraction is the next step. We offer simple and surgical tooth extractions in our office.

Cost, Insurance & Financing

Many dental plans cover part of the cost of root canal treatment. We will give you the cost before treatment begins.

We are in-network with most major PPO dental plans: Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife, United Healthcare, and BCBS Florida Combined Life. We also accept Medicare Advantage plans from Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Humana. Don't see your plan? Call us at (727) 327-5561 and we'll check your benefits.

Financing is available through CareCredit and Sunbit. Patients without insurance may be interested in our dental discount plan.

Root Canal Treatment Near You — St. Petersburg and Surrounding Areas

Grand Central Smiles is located at 1955 1st Ave N #101 in the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg, FL 33713. We see patients from downtown St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park, Seminole, Gulfport, Kenneth City, South Pasadena, Treasure Island, and Lealman. Call (727) 327-5561 or request an appointment online.