Root Canal Therapy

What is a root canal?

A root canal (endodontic therapy) by an Endodontic Specialist, is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need of dental implants or bridges.

At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection can be identified as visible injury or swelling of the tooth, sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums.

If you experience any of these symptoms, your dentist will most likely recommend non-surgical treatment (a root canal / endodontic treatment) to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This root canal / endodontic therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one visit, depending on the treatment required. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addition, we will provide nitrous oxide analgesia, if indicated. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.

An example of a healthy tooth
Healthy Tooth
A tooth anatomy diagram highlighting pulp dentin and canal
Tooth Anatomy
A visual of tooth inflammation showing tooth decay and a inflamed pulp
Inflammation
A representation of a tooth with its canals cleaned
Cleaned Canals
An illustration of root canal filling of a tooth
Filling Placed
An example of a tooth healed by root canal therapy
Healed Tooth

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal / endodontic therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative / general dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene and make that important call to your general dentist for your permanent crown restoration.

How much will it cost?

The cost associated with this procedure can vary depending on factors such as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, root canal / endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth and a healthy choice for the longevity of your tooth.

 
 

Vaughn Endodontics

5 out of 5 stars based on 50 Root Canal Therapy reviews.

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Wonderful office & staff! I highly recommend Vaughn Endodontics. They were ready for me as soon as I checked in at the front desk for my procedure. Mimi, the dental assistant, was very thorough in reviewing my complaint regarding my tooth. She even grabbed me a nice, clean, warm blanket to wrap around my legs during the procedure since it was cold in the doctor's office. I had been having pain for months on a tooth I unknowingly cracked. I am so grateful for Dr. Vaughn and his staff because I am no longer having any pain! This is the first time in like 4 months I have been able to eat comfortably on the left side of my mouth. In fact, I can't believe I waited so long for this procedure because I was in and out of there in about one hour...talk about a breeze! Dr. Mulko also speaks fluent Spanish. She actually did my first root canal on a different tooth at their office in West San Antonio about 6 months ago. She is very knowledgeable about what she does and also has good bedside manner. Jeannine M.

- Jeannine M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

I have never had a painless injection before until today. Dr. Vaughn is super nice and caring. His assistant was just as nice. I already have recommended him to a few of my relatives. I'll be going back in two weeks to finish up my treatment. I am so thankful I found him! 2/29/16

- Angel B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

It was a great experience, everybody was so patient and sweet. I was so nervous, but they eased my mind and made it a great experience.

- Doris A

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Really Awesome Service! Dr. Vaughn is the best!

- Angel B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Dr. Mulko made me feel extremely comfortable during my root canal procedure. In the past during dental procedures the doctor would have to give me more anesthesia, but not today. This was the best visit I've ever had at a dental office. Thank you so much Dr. Mulko - You Rock!

- Colleen S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Extremely professional. Excellent staff. Virtually painless.

- Kenneth H

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Very professional and competent. Nice staff. Great Experience! Awesome!

- Gary Y

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Dr. Vaughn and his assistant were awesome. Painless and was done one visit!

- Joann O

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Wecoming environment. Straight forward and hones

- Alfredo Q

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

i've been in a dental chair numerous times in my life and have never had a better experience than I did today! Jessica and Dr. Vaughn were AMAZING! Will definitely recommend this office to my friends.

- Keeton T

5 out of 5 stars on