FAQs
Most Common Questions
Our Endodontists in St Augustine set the standard for high-quality care that is both comfortable and safe. We pride ourselves on our overwhelming number of positive reviews and successful patient experiences.
What is an Endodontist?
Endodontists are dentists who specialize in root canal treatment. Becoming a specialist requires at least two additional years of advanced specialty education and residency training.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or severely damaged tooth, potentially saving it from extraction.
Here’s what happens during a root canal:
The dentist numbs the tooth using a topical gel and an injection.
A small portion of the top of the tooth is removed to access the pulp.
The infected pulp is extracted using specialized tools.
The interior of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected.
The space is then filled and sealed.
Finally, the top of the tooth may be restored with a filling or crown.
Why would I need an endodontic procedure?
Endodontic, or root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp, the nerves and soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes inflamed or infected. There are several things that can cause a tooth to become infected
How does endodontic treatment save the tooth?
The endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the root canals, then fills and seals the space. Afterwards, you will return to your dentist.
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.
What causes a treated tooth to need additional treatment?
New trauma, deep decay, or a loose, cracked or broken filling can cause new infection in your tooth. In some cases, the endodontist may discover additional very narrow or curved canals that could not be treated during the initial procedure.
What will happen during retreatment?
First, the endodontist will discuss your treatment options. If you and your endodontist choose retreatment, the endodontist will reopen your tooth to gain access to the root canal filling material.
What is an apicoectomy?
In this procedure, the endodontist opens the gum tissue near the tooth to see the underlying bone and to remove any inflamed or infected tissue. The very end of the root is also removed.
What are the alternatives to endodontic retreatment?
The only other alternative is extraction of the tooth. The extracted tooth should then be replaced with an implant, bridge or removable partial denture to restore chewing function and to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
What Insurance do we accept?
We will help you maximize your benefits and create the claims so that you can be directly reimbursed from your insurance company.
