Services

Root canals

A root canal cleans the inside of a tooth when the nerve is inflamed or infected, so the tooth can be kept.

A general dentist does it. If the tooth has very curved canals, the dentist tells you and refers you to an endodontist.

What happens at the visit

It usually takes one or two visits, plus one more for a crown if you need one.

01
Step 1: Exam and X-ray
The dentist shows you the tooth and explains the options.
02
Step 2: We numb the tooth
We wait for it to take effect before starting.
03
Step 3: We clean the canal
We remove the damaged nerve, clean the inside and seal it.
04
Step 4: We protect the tooth
We cover it with a filling and, often, a crown at another visit.

Comfort
We numb the tooth before we start and stop if you ask. If you feel anything, tell us and we wait for it to take hold.
Alternatives, and what if you wait
The other option is removing the tooth. You can also wait, but an infection can grow. The dentist explains all three paths and what each costs.
Risks and after-care
There can be some soreness for a few days. If you get a fever, swelling or an ache that grows, call us the same day. If swelling spreads to your face, eye or neck, go to an emergency room or call 911.
How it's billed
It's billed by treatment. Before we start, you get the fee in writing, including the crown if you need one.
How fees work

We numb the tooth before we start and stop if you ask. Afterward there can be some soreness for a few days.

Often yes, because a treated tooth is more fragile. The dentist tells you whether yours needs one.

That's an option. We explain what happens with each path and what each costs.

Dr. Wilfredo Orellana, DDS, general dentist licensed in Florida.