Root Canal FAQs | Common Asked Questions in Jacksonville

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a common dental procedure performed by an endodontist to treat a tooth with an inflamed or infected pulp. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, is removed from inside the tooth. The canals are then thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.

After sealing the canals, a temporary restoration is placed. To protect the tooth from future infection or fracture, a crown (cap) is typically placed over the tooth. This procedure helps preserve the natural tooth, eliminate infection, and restore the tooth’s normal function.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

Most people become aware they may need a root canal due to persistent pain or because their dentist identifies issues such as a deep cavity, problems with an existing filling, or an infection in the jawbone linked to a diseased tooth.

Common symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include:

• A toothache lasting several days
• Sharp pain when biting down or releasing pressure
• A pimple or bump on the gum near the affected tooth
• A chipped or cracked tooth
• Swollen or tender gums
• Advanced tooth decay
• Darkening of the gums
• A tooth that has turned black or gray
• Increasing sensitivity to hot or cold foods

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist. Should your dentist recommend a root canal evaluation, we’re here to help.

Contact Varella Endodontics at (904) 739-2422 to schedule an evaluation and get the care you need.

Is a root canal treatment painful?

No—most root canal treatments can be completed painlessly. With today’s advanced techniques and anesthetics, the procedure is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.

In rare cases, where there is severe inflammation or infection, achieving full anesthesia can be more challenging. However, Dr. Varella has extensive experience managing these situations and will use every available anesthetic technique to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

During the treatment, you should not feel any pain—only mild pressure as the work is being done.

Your comfort is our top priority.

What happens during the root canal procedure?

Once you are fully numb and comfortable, Dr. Varella begins the procedure by making a small opening on the top of the affected tooth. Using specialized instruments called files, he carefully removes the pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves.

Next, the root canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any remaining bacteria or debris. Once the canals are clean, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and the tooth is sealed with a temporary restoration.

After the root canal is completed, your general dentist will typically place a permanent crown over the tooth. This helps protect it from further damage and prevents bacteria from re-entering the tooth.

How long does a root canal take?

The duration of a root canal procedure depends on several factors, including:

• The complexity of the case
• The type and position of the tooth in the mouth
• The number of root canals
• Whether the canals are calcified (narrow or constricted), curved, or unusually long

In general, most root canal treatments take between 30 to 90 minutes to complete.

If a surgical procedure (such as an apicoectomy) is needed, it typically takes about 45 to 75 minutes.

Are root canals safe?

Yes—root canals are safe and highly effective procedures performed by endodontists who undergo years of advanced training. They specialize in treating the inside of the tooth using the latest tools and technology to ensure precision, comfort, and long-term success.

Any outdated myths suggesting that root canals cause systemic infections have been thoroughly debunked by modern science.

In fact, the alternative to a root canal is often tooth extraction, which can lead to more serious oral health issues—such as:

• Shifting of nearby teeth
• Bite misalignment
• Loss of jawbone density
• The need for more complex and costly dental work (like implants or bridges)

Saving your natural tooth through root canal therapy is almost always the healthiest and most cost-effective option