ENDODONTIC TREATMENT · NAPLES, FL
Root Canal Treatment
Root canals have an undeserved reputation. Modern techniques make the procedure comfortable — and it relieves tooth pain rather than causing it. We help you save your natural tooth.
WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?
Eliminate Pain. Save Your Natural Tooth.
Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria from decay or a crack reach the pulp, it becomes infected — causing significant pain, sensitivity, and swelling. A root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans the canals, and seals the tooth to prevent re-infection.
The goal is to eliminate your pain and preserve the natural tooth. Keeping your own tooth is almost always better than extraction, as it maintains your bite, jawbone density, and neighboring teeth alignment.
- Severe, persistent toothache
- Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in nearby gums
- A persistent pimple on the gum (abscess)
THE PROCEDURE
Step-by-Step: What to Expect
Many patients are surprised to find that a root canal feels similar to getting a large filling. With modern anesthetics and techniques, discomfort during the procedure is minimal. Most people return to normal activity the following day.
- Step 1 — Anesthesia: Local anesthetic numbs the tooth and surrounding area completely.
- Step 2 — Access & Removal: A small opening is made to access and remove the infected pulp.
- Step 3 — Canal Cleaning: Each root canal is shaped, cleaned, and disinfected.
- Step 4 — Sealing: The canals are filled with a biocompatible material (gutta-percha).
- Step 5 — Crown: A custom crown is placed to restore full strength and appearance.
| 15M+ | Root Canals Performed Annually in the U.S. |
| 95% | Success Rate for Root Canal Therapy |
| 1–2 | Visits to Complete Treatment |
| 30+ | Years of Experience |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a root canal hurt?
The procedure itself should not be painful — the area is fully numbed with local anesthetic before we begin. You may feel pressure but no sharp pain. Mild soreness in the area for a day or two afterward is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals are completed in one to two appointments of 90 minutes or less. Front teeth with a single canal are faster; back molars with multiple canals may require a second visit.
What happens if I don't get a root canal?
An untreated infected tooth will not heal on its own. The infection can spread to surrounding bone and tissue, potentially becoming a serious systemic health concern. Extraction may ultimately be the only option if treatment is delayed too long.
How long do root canal results last?
A properly treated and restored tooth (with a crown) can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene. Regular checkups allow Dr. O'Sullivan to monitor the treated tooth over time.
Toothache? Don't Wait. Early treatment saves teeth. Call us today — same-day emergency appointments available.
