Root Canal Therapy

What is a root canal?

A root canal 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 to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits 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

Endodontic Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of endodontic procedures, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to root canal therapy are discussed.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative 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.

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, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.

Implants?

Implants are often considered an appealing solution to tooth loss.  Many people have the misconception that a lost tooth can be readily replaced with an implant.  Implants are quite useful in certain situations, but their backstory is often untold.  Simply put, implants are expensive and most dental insurances don’t cover the procedure, they typically require seven months to complete and complications are not uncommon.

 
 

New South Endodontics

5 out of 5 stars based on 43 Root Canal Therapy reviews.

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Very professional office; Dr. Elliot and staff were great, left their office after procedure and kept saying all day, 'Wow"!

- Kim A

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

In and out in about one hour. The procedure was painless except for the numbing but this covered only 5-10 seconds. Over 24 hours later no pain, swelling or other issues.

- Chalmer B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I had two root canals done by Dr. Elliott and If I ever have to have another this is the doctor I want to do it.

- Donnie L

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I felt very at ease going into the procedure and the results were great. I would recommend New South to anyone needing Root Canal Treatment.

- Danny B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

VERY WELL PLEASED

- Catherine Ratliff

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr Elliott worked quickly and I never knew he numbed me. He was excellent.

- Claudia M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I never thought I would leave a root canal with a smile on my face. I chose New South Endodontics after my dentist said that he send patients there when they are not sure the tooth can be saved and Dr. Elliot usually saves it. The office is beautifully decorated and smelled like apples when I arrived. The staff quickly took my paperwork and I felt like I was the only patient there. One of the staff came and took X-rays. I hate having x-rays taken because of my gag reflex. Here they using a machine where you stand and it turns around you. No bite wings!! Dr. Elliot came in and explained the situation and got started. He put something in my mouth to isolate the tooth and it completely eliminated my gag reflex. My appointment was at 9:45 and I was finished and at home by 11:00. I usually have to have a valium to have a cavity filled. I only had novocaine and this was way less stressful than having a normal cavity filled. They lived up to their motto of making sure I had an enjoyable experience.

- Martha S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I appreciated the nice atmosphere at New South Endodontics as well as the professional and kind staff and would definitely go to see Dr. Elliott gain, should I need this type of dental care in the future!!

- Lisa G

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everything regarding my procedure was explained to me in depth. This was my 3rd root canal procedure and my 1st one with Dr. Elliott. I was very impressed with how he numbed the nerves, as it was the most least painful technique I have ever experienced. The office staff were friendly, approachable and explain the insurance coverage and billing to me, so there were no surprises. I highly recommend this endodontic facility and even called my own dentist afterward to let them know how satisfied I was with this referral.

- Greta R

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

This is a wonderful place, I have had several root canals done by Dr. Elliot, he is the best in my humble opinion! Would recommend him to everyone !

- Debbie C

5 out of 5 stars on