Reviewed by Dr. Randall Hedrick, Board-Certified Endodontist | Certificate in Endodontics, University of Texas Health Science Center (1993)
Fear of the unknown is often what makes root canals feel so daunting. Once you understand exactly what happens — step by step — the procedure becomes far less intimidating. Here is precisely what you can expect during a root canal at St. Petersburg Endodontics.
Step 1: Diagnosis and 3D imaging
Your appointment begins with a comprehensive evaluation. We will take a 3D cone beam CT (CBCT) scan of the affected tooth, which gives Dr. Hedrick a complete picture of the root anatomy, the extent of any infection, and the number of canals present. This step alone sets us apart — most general dental offices use only 2D X-rays, which can miss critical details.
Dr. Hedrick will review the scan with you, explain what he sees, and confirm the diagnosis before any treatment begins. You will never feel rushed into a procedure you don’t fully understand.
Step 2: Anesthesia — getting you completely numb
A profound local anesthetic is administered to the area around the affected tooth. Dr. Hedrick uses refined injection techniques developed over decades of practice to make this as comfortable as possible. You should feel pressure during the procedure but no sharp pain. If you feel any discomfort at any point, let us know immediately — additional anesthetic is always an option.
For patients with significant anxiety, we also offer sedation options. Ask our team about nitrous oxide or oral sedation when you schedule your appointment.
Step 3: Isolation with a dental dam
A small rubber sheet called a dental dam is placed around the tooth. This keeps the area clean and dry during treatment, protects you from any irrigation solution, and allows Dr. Hedrick to work with full visibility.
Step 4: Access and pulp removal
Using the dental microscope — which magnifies the tooth up to 25 times — Dr. Hedrick makes a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Specialized hand and rotary instruments are used to remove the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from each canal.
Step 5: Laser irrigation and disinfection
This is where St. Petersburg Endodontics is different from most endodontic practices. Instead of relying solely on chemical irrigants, we use laser-activated irrigation (PIPS/SWEEPS technology) to reach and eliminate bacteria throughout the entire canal system — including areas that traditional instruments and solutions cannot access.
This thorough disinfection is the primary reason our retreatment rate is lower than the national average. Bacteria left behind is the number one cause of root canal failure.
Step 6: Canal shaping and filling
The canals are gently shaped to a consistent taper, then filled with a biocompatible rubber-like material called gutta-percha and sealed with a dental cement. This permanently closes off the canal system from future bacterial contamination.
Step 7: Temporary seal and next steps
A temporary filling is placed in the access opening. Dr. Hedrick will send detailed treatment notes to your referring dentist, who will typically schedule you for a permanent crown within a few weeks to fully restore the tooth’s strength and function.
What does recovery feel like?
Most patients experience mild soreness for one to three days after the procedure, particularly if the area was significantly inflamed before treatment. This is managed easily with over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Avoid chewing on the treated side until your crown is placed.
Dr. Hedrick personally calls patients following their procedure to check on their recovery — a small but meaningful detail that many of our patients mention in their reviews.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a root canal take?: Most procedures at our office take 60 to 90 minutes and are completed in a single visit.
Will I be awake during the procedure?: Yes. Root canals are performed under local anesthesia — you are awake and comfortable throughout. Sedation options are available for anxious patients.
Can I drive myself home?: If you choose local anesthesia only, yes. If you opt for oral sedation, you will need a driver.
When can I return to work?: Most patients return to normal activities the same day or the following day.
Schedule with Dr. Hedrick
St. Petersburg Endodontics is located at 4805 49th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33709. We welcome patients from across Pinellas County including Clearwater, Largo, Pinellas Park, Seminole, and Gulfport. Call (727) 521-2285 or contact us online to schedule.