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

I am not from this area, when I called to schedule appointment Sandi was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. There was no wait when I signed in and I saw Dr. Vaughn right away. His assistant was very efficient and friendly. Xrays were done quickly and comfortably. Although I was not scheduled for a root canal on that day, Dr. Vaughn did the procedure and completed it within an hour and a half. They were very patient and explained everything that they were doing. I was delighted with my results, no pain and took Advil only once that night.

- Cindy C

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Sunglasses were Great! Vaseline was appreciated. The doctor and staff were amazing. The 2 assistants were very alert and attentive. I appreciated the excellence of care I received.

- Jan S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Pleasure!

- LuAnn S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Assistant was very professional & nice. Experience was quick & pleasant. Awesome

- Stephanie F

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Everything was great, very thorough, professional, and above all, kind.

- Benner B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Very impressed with Dr. Mulko and her team. They were professional, courteous, told me what was happening and actually listened when I had questions. I walked in expecting multiple visits and having to take a second mortgage to pay for it, walked out with everything done and at a very reasonable price. Wish I could give them 6 stars.

- John P

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Fabulous experience. Great Team. Great attitude throughout the process. Easy to recommend this office!

- Anonymous .

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Thank you for your professional expertise and generosity. I am sure all your patients feel fortunate.

- Judith

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Had a previous bad experience at another dentist, so wasn't happy to need more dental work. But loved Dr. Vaughn and staff. No Pain

- Donna I

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonials

Very modern office. Well trained staff. Caring, gentle doctor. Highly recommend.

- Donald W

5 out of 5 stars on