When Is a Root Canal Needed?

A root canal may become necessary when a cavity is left untreated and the decay spreads to the tooth’s center, called the pulp. It can also result from a cracked or chipped tooth. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that keep the tooth alive and connected to your overall health. Once the infection reaches this area, it can spread through the body if left untreated, leading to tooth loss and other complications.

At SoBe Dentist, we focus on keeping your smile healthy in Miami Beach with comprehensive care, including gentle endodontic treatment to save infected teeth and protect your oral health. To determine whether you need a root canal, Dr. Escoto or Dr. Mantovani will examine your mouth and take detailed dental x-rays.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

  • Persistent pain
  • Temperature sensitivity
  • Pain when eating or touching a tooth
  • Swollen gums
  • Tooth discoloration
  • Loose-feeling teeth
  • Cracked or chipped tooth
  • Abscess on the gum line or tooth root

While these symptoms may indicate a serious infection, the best way to avoid needing a root canal is through preventative dental care. At SoBe Dentist, we’re dedicated to comprehensive care, including regular checkups, professional cleanings, and early cavity detection. Routine visits help us catch small issues before they become painful or require more advanced treatment.

What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment

Your comfort is our priority throughout the procedure. For patients who experience dental anxiety, we offer sedation dentistry options to help you stay relaxed and calm. If you choose sedation, please arrange for transportation to and from your appointment.

Once you’re comfortable, Dr. Escoto or Dr. Mantovani will numb the area and create a small opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp. The root canals are then cleaned, shaped, and filled with a biocompatible material and adhesive cement to seal the space. Finally, a temporary filling is placed, which will later be replaced with a custom dental crown or restoration. This final restoration restores strength, structure, and natural appearance—helping your tooth stay healthy for years to come.

After Your Root Canal: Restoring and Protecting Your Tooth

Following your root canal, it’s normal to experience mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication and gentle brushing usually help ease any discomfort. Most patients return to normal activities the next day.

Because a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy no longer has living pulp tissue, it can become more brittle over time. To ensure durability and protection, we recommend a custom dental crown or restoration. Your permanent crown not only restores full function but also blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, maintaining your confident smile.

Other restorative options may include:

  • Inlays or onlays, if only a small portion of the tooth structure was affected.
  • Tooth-colored fillings, for minor access openings.
  • Dental bonding, to repair chips or improve aesthetics.

Our dentists will discuss the best restoration choice based on your tooth’s condition and your long-term oral health goals.

Long-Term Care After a Root Canal

A root canal restores your oral health, but maintaining it requires good long-term care. Continue to brush and floss daily, paying special attention to the area around your crown. Schedule regular dental visits every six months for cleanings and checkups—this helps ensure your restored tooth and surrounding gums remain healthy.

Avoid biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, which can damage your crown or weaken the tooth structure. If you experience pain, swelling, or a loose crown, contact our office promptly for an evaluation. With proper care, a tooth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime.

How to Prevent Future Root Canals

A strong, healthy smile begins with prevention. Follow these simple habits to reduce your risk of needing future root canals:

By maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting us regularly, you’ll give your smile the best chance to stay strong and infection-free.

Protect Your Smile with Comprehensive Dental Care

Your oral health is an essential part of your overall well-being, and our goal at SoBe Dentist is to help you keep every tooth healthy, strong, and pain-free. Whether you need gentle endodontic care, routine cleanings, or advanced restorative treatments, our team provides comprehensive dental care in Miami Beach tailored to your unique needs.

Don’t wait until pain becomes a problem—take the first step toward lasting comfort and health. Call (305) 535-2225 today to schedule your visit at SoBe Dentist and let us help you maintain a confident, healthy smile for life.