Root Canal Therapy in St. Petersburg, FL - Preserve Your Natural Smile

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root Canal Therapy is a dental procedure designed to treat infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth, containing nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or cracks, it can cause severe pain and lead to abscesses or tooth loss if left untreated. Root canal therapy involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the interior of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection. This procedure helps preserve the natural tooth and alleviates pain.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Recognizing the signs of a pulp infection early can help you seek treatment promptly. Common symptoms indicating the need for root canal therapy include:

• Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent pain that may worsen when chewing or applying pressure.
• Prolonged Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers even after the stimulus is removed.
• Swollen Gums: Swelling and tenderness around the affected tooth.
• Discoloration: Darkening of the tooth, indicating internal damage.
• Abscess Formation: Visible pimples or boils on the gums near the affected tooth.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact us immediately. Dr. Kristine Marshall and her team are proud to offer comprehensive dental emergency treatments, and same-day emergency dental appointments. Early intervention can prevent further complications and preserve your natural tooth.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy offers several significant benefits:

• Pain Relief: The procedure alleviates severe tooth pain caused by infection or damage.
• Preservation of Natural Tooth: By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, root canal therapy helps maintain the natural tooth structure.
• Prevention of Spread: Treating the infection prevents it from spreading to adjacent teeth and tissues.
• Improved Oral Health: Root canal therapy restores the tooth's functionality, allowing you to chew and speak properly.
• Aesthetic Restoration: Following the procedure, a crown is often placed on the tooth, enhancing its appearance and strength.

The Root Canal Procedure

At Kristine Marshall, DDS, we ensure a comfortable and efficient root canal treatment process. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

Initial Consultation and Examination

Your journey begins with a thorough examination and consultation. Dr. Kristine Marshall will assess your dental health, take X-rays to evaluate the extent of the infection or damage, and discuss your symptoms and treatment options.

Numbing and Preparation

To ensure your comfort, a local anesthetic is applied to numb the affected area. Once you are comfortable, Dr. Marshall will create an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.

Removal of Infected Pulp

Using specialized instruments, Dr. Marshall will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth. The pulp chamber and root canals are then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any remaining bacteria.

Sealing the Tooth

After cleaning, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect it from future infection.

Restoration with a CEREC Same-Day Crown

In most cases, a crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. At Kristine Marshall, DDS, we use advanced CEREC technology to create and place Same-Day Crowns. This state-of-the-art system allows us to design, fabricate, and fit a custom-made crown in a single visit, saving you time and providing immediate results. CEREC crowns are made from high-quality ceramic materials that can be color-matched to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetically pleasing restoration. Learn more about our Same-Day Crowns services.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following root canal therapy, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort and sensitivity, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Dr. Marshall will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and maintenance of your treated tooth. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential to keep your restored tooth healthy.

Comprehensive Dental Care at Kristine Marshall, DDS

At Kristine Marshall, DDS, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care tailored to your needs. Our team combines expertise, advanced technology, and compassionate care to ensure optimal outcomes for our patients. Dr. Kristine Marshall has extensive experience in restorative dentistry, including root canal therapy, and is committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.

Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation Today

Don’t let tooth pain disrupt your life. Contact Kristine Marshall, DDS, in St. Petersburg, FL, to schedule your root canal therapy consultation. Our expert team is here to provide you with the highest quality care and restore your oral health. Call us at 727-201-8700 or visit us at 180 4th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Take the first step towards a pain-free, healthy smile today.