Root Canals

Why People Love Pine Avenue Smiles

Adara G.
Great experience, which is not easy to come by for a Dental office. The staff were all so kind and friendly. The Dr. is amazing. He took his time to talk to me about any issues I may have. He never rushed throughout the appointment and gave me many options as to what I wanted or needed. You can tell they really care about their patients and aren't trying to just rush you out. My cleaning was great and the hygienist was very thorough with cleaning.
Venice J.
Dr. Sorsok is an excellent dentist, knowledgeable, gentle, caring and honest. He’s very calm and pleasant with a beautiful smile. The staff is very pleasant and helpful. I recommend Pine Avenue Smiles.
Magic M.
Professional and excellent ‘bedside manner’ - Dr. Sorsok and his team truly care for their patients throughout the entire process, in and out of the office.
Justina J.
Dr. Matthew Sorsok was amazing! He was very gentle and efficient. The hygienists are also wonderful! I will only trust Dr. Matt with my dental care!
Manal Y.
I used to be terrified of the dentist, but Dr. Sorsok and his team are super professional. Dr. Sorsok is truly a talented, gentle, thorough and really takes the time to explain everything. The office is very calming, which helped me relax. Highly recommend for anyone nervous about dental work .
Rich H.
Been going to this office for over 30 years. Doctor Matt is a great new addition. Highly recommend. Great staff.
Brenda M.
I am so thankful for the entire team at Pine Ave Smiles. The entire staff treated me so respectfully. I was so happy to be treated by Dr. Matt Sorsok. I was referred to the office by a patient of Dr. Pan. I just want people to know that Dr. Matt Sorsok will show the dedication and care and heart for his patients. I experienced that. Thank you Dr. Matt and good luck. I think you are going to be fabulous .
John Anthony J.
I had a great experience with Dr. Matthew Sorsok. He is extremely knowledgeable, patient, and takes the time to explain everything clearly before starting any procedure. The entire staff was friendly and professional, and the office was clean and well-organized. I felt comfortable and well taken care of throughout my visit. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a trustworthy dentist.
Nancy T.
Pine Ave Smiles is an excellent dental office. My husband first visit today and he was very please with the staff. The office was very welcoming and the Dentist was very friendly. Glad we found this office. My visit is in the next few weeks can't wait!

Expertise in Saving Teeth

Dr. Pan explaining procedure to patient

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a gentle, modern endodontic treatment that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside your tooth, thoroughly disinfects the canal system, and seals it to prevent reinfection. The goal is simple: relieve pain, stop infection, and save your natural tooth so you can chew comfortably and smile confidently.

Thanks to local anesthesia, high-magnification microscopes, and laser-assisted disinfection, treatment is typically comfortable—and far more predictable than extracting a tooth and replacing it later.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

  • Persistent toothache or pain when chewing or biting
  • Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold (lasting 10+ seconds)
  • Swelling, tenderness, or a pimple/“bubble” on the gums
  • Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
  • Cracked, chipped, or deeply decayed tooth
  • Bad taste or drainage, especially near a single tooth
  • Pain that wakes you at night or requires pain relievers to manage
Woman with toothache
Dr. Pan explaining procedure to patient

Get Relief

When you’re in pain, the first step is identifying the true source of the problem. We use targeted testing and digital imaging to diagnose accurately, then act quickly to get you comfortable—often the same day. (Antibiotics alone don’t remove infection inside a tooth; definitive care is what ends the cycle.)

Protect Time & Health

A non-surgical root canal is often the most predictable, efficient way to save your natural tooth and preserve your bite and jaw health. While dental implants are an excellent option when a tooth truly can’t be saved, they typically involve more time, steps, and cost than preserving your own tooth.

Laser-Assisted Non-Surgical Root Canal Therapy: What to Expect

With advanced microscopes and laser technology, Dr. Sorsok delivers precise, comfortable care from start to finish.

Exam & Diagnosis

Digital imaging and focused tests pinpoint the source of pain.

Comfort & Isolation

Gentle anesthesia and a protective isolation dam keep the area clean and you comfortable.

Access & Cleaning

A tiny opening allows us to remove infected tissue and shape the canals under high magnification for thorough cleaning.

Laser Disinfection

Laser energy reaches into complex canal anatomy to further reduce bacteria beyond standard irrigation.

Seal & Strengthen

Canals are sealed with a biocompatible material; a temporary or permanent filling is placed to close the opening.

Final Protection

Most back teeth (and some front teeth) usually require a custom crown after healing to restore full strength and protect against fractures.

Healing & Aftercare

Most patients return to normal routines the same day. Mild tenderness for 24–72 hours is common and usually managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your final restoration (often a crown) is completed, and keep up great brushing and flossing.

Persistent or severe pain beyond 3 days is not typical—please call (813) 359-9756 for a follow-up. Also, contact us if you notice swelling, fever, or if a temporary filling or crown loosens.

Why Patients Choose Us

Save Your Tooth

– Keep your natural bite, smile, and bone health whenever possible.

Real Pain Relief

Swift, accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment to end discomfort.

Microscope + Laser

Technology that supports cleaner canals and precise results.

Compassionate Dentistry for the Whole Family

two women sitting at a glass table talking

Financing Options

We accept MEDICARE
We do not accept: HMO or Medicaid.

Trust & Honesty

Pine Avenue Smiles team members at the front desk.

State-of-the-Art Dentistry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a root canal (endodontic) treatment?

A root canal is an endodontic procedure that removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside the tooth, disinfects the canals, and seals them to prevent reinfection—so you can keep your natural tooth, chew comfortably, and relieve pain.

Will a root canal hurt?

With modern anesthesia and gentle technique, most patients feel pressure but not pain during treatment. Discomfort usually improves quickly once inflammation is addressed.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

Common signs include lingering sensitivity to hot/cold, pain with chewing, swelling or a pimple on the gums, tooth discoloration, or a cracked/deeply decayed tooth. Digital tests and imaging confirm the diagnosis.

Why save the tooth instead of extracting it and getting an implant?

When predictable, saving your natural tooth is typically more efficient and cost-effective, preserving your bite and jawbone. Implants are excellent when a tooth truly can’t be saved, but they usually require more time and steps.

What technology do you use for root canals?

Dr. Pan uses a high-magnification dental microscope for precision and laser-assisted disinfection to reduce bacteria in complex canal anatomy, supporting thorough, comfortable care.

How many visits will I need, and how long does it take?

Many cases are completed in one visit of about 60–90 minutes. Complex infections or anatomy can require a short second visit for best results.

Will I need a crown after my root canal?

Often, yes—especially for back teeth. A custom crown strengthens the tooth and helps prevent fractures after the internal structure has been cleaned and sealed.

Can antibiotics alone fix a tooth infection?

No. Antibiotics may ease symptoms temporarily but can’t remove infected tissue inside the tooth. Definitive endodontic treatment is needed to resolve the source.

What is recovery like?

Most patients return to normal routines the same day. Mild tenderness for a few days is common; avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration is placed. Severe or persistent pain beyond 3 days isn’t typical—please call (813) 359-9756.

Does insurance cover root canals, and do you offer financing?

Many plans contribute toward root canal therapy and necessary restorations. We’ll explain your benefits and offer flexible options (e.g., CareCredit, Sunbit, Denefits) to keep care accessible.r

Learn More About Root Canals

WebMD: Dental Health and Root Canals
Healthline: How Long Will I Have to Sit in the Dentist Chair During a Root Canal?
Cleveland Clinic: Root Canals
Patient smiling at frontdesk

We Are In-Network With Most PPO Insurances

We do not accept: HMO or Medicaid.
We accept MEDICARE

Expert Care in Saving Teeth

Dr. Matthew Sorsok

DDS

Our whole team is committed to providing caring and patient-centered service. Come see what it’s like to be a part of our dental family!

Your Smile, Your Way

We focus on listening to our patients and giving them options so they are always in control of their own dental health. Because dental health is linked to overall wellness, we take your concerns, considerations, and smile goals very seriously.

Continuing a Legacy of Care

We blend the personalized care you love with modern techniques and technology, ensuring you receive the best care possible.

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