Root Canal in Jacksonville, FL
Root Canal
If you have a toothache, unexplained bleeding, or any other signs/symptoms of a dental problem, it’s important to schedule a dental visit right away. When addressed early, most dental issues can be stopped before they escalate. However, if left untreated, decay can get into the dental pulp, which is the soft center of your tooth.
When this happens, many people believe that extraction is the only answer. However, this will only create additional issues. Typically, the dentist will recommend procedures designed to save the structure of the natural tooth. This is known as root canal treatment.
Dr. Fred Tepedino at Dental Arts of Florida in Jacksonville offers a variety of general, cosmetic, and restorative dental procedures, including root canals.
Am I a Candidate for a Root Canal?
There are several signs and symptoms that indicate you may need root canal treatment, including:
Persistent, Chronic Toothache
One of the first signs you may need root canal treatment is a persistent, chronic toothache. However, it is important to note that this is also a sign/symptom of other issues too. The only way to be sure is to have a dental exam.
Abscess
When you have an infection, sometimes a pocket of pus will form along the gumline near the affected tooth. The pus may ooze from the pocket, leaving an unpleasant taste in your mouth. If you have an abscess, it’s important to visit the dentist as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of your body.
Swelling Around Affected Tooth
In some cases, the gums around the affected tooth may swell. This swelling is due to waste products from the dead tooth pulp. The area may or may not be tender to the touch.
Severe Sensitivity
If your teeth are sensitive to heat/cold or sweets, you may need root canal treatment. In addition, if you feel sensitivity/pain when pressure is put on the affected tooth, you may want to consider root canal treatment.
Chipped/Cracked Tooth
A chip or crack in your tooth allows bacteria to get inside of the tooth. When this happens, the pulp is more susceptible to infection. Therefore, any time you have a crack or chip in your tooth, it’s important to visit the dentist as soon as possible.
Loose Tooth
If a tooth is infected, it may feel loose due to the waste products from nerve death causing the bone to soften. If you have more than one tooth that feels loose, you may have a different problem.
What is a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment, more commonly referred to as simply “root canal” is a procedure in which the dental pulp is removed. The pulp is the soft center of the tooth where the nerves and blood vessels are located.
This treatment eliminates pain, prevents tooth loss, and restores function without the need for extraction.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
At Dental Arts of Florida, we use a minimally invasive, patient-focused approach to ensure a smooth, comfortable, and pain-free Root Canal experience. Our expert dentists utilize advanced technology and modern techniques to preserve your natural tooth while eliminating infection and discomfort. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:
Comprehensive Diagnosis
Our treatment process begins with a thorough oral examination and high-resolution digital X-rays to evaluate the extent of the infection. We assess the tooth structure, root canals, and surrounding tissues to determine if a Root Canal is the best course of action.
- Digital X-rays & 3D Imaging for precise diagnosis
- Early detection of infection to prevent further damage
- Personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs
Painless Anesthesia & Sedation
We prioritize patient comfort by administering local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth completely. For patients with dental anxiety, we also offer sedation dentistry options to ensure a stress-free and relaxing procedure.
- Local anesthesia for pain-free treatment
- Oral sedation or IV sedation for anxious patients
- A completely comfortable and relaxed experience
Cleaning & Sealing the Root Canal
Once the area is numb, we access the tooth’s inner pulp chamber to remove the infected or damaged tissue. The root canals are then carefully shaped, disinfected, and sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
- Removal of infected pulp and bacteria
- Cleaning and shaping of root canals with advanced rotary instruments
- Sterilization to prevent reinfection
Tooth Restoration with a Custom Crown
After sealing the root canal, the final step is restoring the tooth’s strength and appearance with a custom-fitted dental crown. The crown protects the tooth from future damage while ensuring natural function and aesthetics.
- Custom-designed crown for durability & strength
- Matches the color and shape of natural teeth
- Restores chewing ability and prevents fractures
Advanced Technology for Better Results
At Dental Arts of Florida, we integrate cutting-edge dental technology to enhance the success and efficiency of your Root Canal treatment:
- 3D Imaging & Digital X-rays – Enhanced precision for accurate treatment planning
- Laser-Assisted Disinfection – Eliminates bacteria more effectively for faster healing
- Rotary Endodontics – Increases accuracy and reduces procedure time
- Painless Techniques – Ensuring a stress-free experience
With our state-of-the-art techniques, skilled endodontic specialists, and compassionate approach, we ensure a comfortable, efficient, and long-lasting Root Canal treatment that restores both your oral health and your confidence.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Opting for Root Canal Therapy at Dental Arts of Florida ensures:
- Permanent pain relief – Eliminates infection at the source.
- Tooth preservation – Avoids unnecessary extractions.
- Prevention of further infections – Stops bacteria from spreading.
- Restored oral function – You can chew, bite, and smile confidently.
- Long-lasting results – With proper care, your treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Thanks to modern dentistry, Root Canals are now painless and highly successful, allowing you to regain comfort and confidence.
Dental Financing Options At
Dental Arts of Florida
Our office is in-network with most major insurance providers and most PPO insurance plans. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible. If you do not find your insurance provider here; please call at (904) 822-9786 for clarity.
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Meet Our Dentist
Get To Know Your Doctor
Specializes in General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry
Dr. Fred Tepedino, DMD, brings a legacy of dentistry spanning four generations, with over 20 dentists in his family. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology and Microbiology from the University of Central Florida before obtaining his Doctorate in Dental Medicine from Nova Southeastern University.
Dr. Tepedino began his career as a clinical dentistry instructor, later transitioning into private practice with a specialization in advanced cosmetic dentistry and implant restorations. His commitment to continuous learning led him to achieve a Fellowship in Implant Dentistry and advanced alveolar reconstruction.
In 2011, Dr. Tepedino relocated to Jacksonville to lead Dental Arts of Florida, integrating his expertise in cosmetic design, reconstruction, and comprehensive dental care. Outside of dentistry, he enjoys an active lifestyle with his wife Chelsea and daughters, Charlotte and Harper. Passionate about perfection, Dr. Tepedino is dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality care to help patients achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Don't Let Tooth Pain Take Over – Get Expert Care Today!
If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity, don’t wait until it worsens! Our pain-free, expert Root Canal treatment at Dental Arts of Florida can save your tooth and restore your smile in just one visit.
Book Your Consultation Today! Let us help you get back to a pain-free, confident smile with our gentle and advanced Root Canal treatment.
FAQs About Root Canals
You should not try to eat until the anesthesia has worn off. If you try to eat while your mouth is still numb, you may bite down on your cheek, tongue, or lips. After the anesthesia wears off, you can eat- but you may want to stick with soft foods at first and avoid chewing on the side of the root canal.
If you are a smoker, it is recommended that you not smoke immediately following your root canal procedure. We recommend that you wait at least 72 hours to avoid complications
Most patients are able to drive following root canal treatment because only local anesthesia is used. However, patients who require sedation will need to make sure to bring someone that can drive them home and sit with them until the anesthesia wears off.
When you do eat following your root canal procedure, you should start with soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the procedure. You can transition back to your typical diet as you feel ready.
No, patients are typically not sedated for root canal treatment. However, we do offer sedation for patients who have anxiety or who are unable to be still for an extended period of time.