Root Canal Therapy

What is a root canal?

A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 22 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 tissue. It 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 endodontic (root canal) treatment to take out 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 over 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 ensure your comfort. 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 an 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

Read patient reviews for this procedure below…

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.

Click to start the Endodontic Presentation

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 within a few days after root canal therapy has been completed to schedule a follow-up restoration. 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.

Contact Advanced Endodontic Associates Today...


Advanced Endodontic Associates

5 out of 5 stars based on 346 Root Canal Therapy reviews

Patient Review from Peter M

Recently I experienced a strange combination of sensitivity and extreme sharp pain in the center of a molar whenever I bite hard food. The reason for it could not be identified by my regular dentists. I immediately knew who I should turn to. That is Dr. Simon. Ten years ago he treated me. I requested my dentist to refer me to Dr. Simon. Dr. Simon evaluated and identified the problem. He showed me the x-rays and explained where the infection was. It was at the very bottom of the root. He performed a root canal treatment with absolutely no pain. Throughout the procedure he explained what he was going to do, what he was doing, and why he was doing it. He explained the new procedures and materials he employed. He was concerned about the comfort of the patient. He followed up in the evening. He also ensured that I would get the restorative tooth protection done by my dentist. I really admire the way he performs his procedures, explains, and cares. I would recommend him to any one who needs such services. The facility is very welcoming. The staff is so friendly. Thank you Dr. Simon.

- Peter M

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Rich C

Dr. Fredric Simon is an extraordinary endodontist. I had some gum pain and saw my regular periodontist, he said it might be an infection and made an immediate appointment for me with Dr. Simon, who confirmed the pain was due to an infection from a hole in the root so I needed an immediate root canal on that tooth. He did everything flawlessly and nearly pain-free. He went through the back of the tooth so the front would be unblemished. He explained every step that he was going to do before he did it, he purged, cleaned and sealed the interior of the tooth where the nerve was, showed me photos of the digital x-rays before and after so I could see what needed to be done and how the procedure had eliminated the infection and to follow up with my regular dentist within a few weeks to seal the tooth permanently. He is not only an expert with amazing skill and knowledge but he also cares a lot about patient comfort and education so that the patient understands exactly what is happening and why it is being done. I would highly recommend him without reservation for anyone who needs to see an endodontist.

- Rich C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Rod A

Was able to schedule an emergency appointment quickly. Doctor was pleasant and explained the procedures very clearly. Ensured I was comfortable during the root canal. Followed up to check on me after the procedure.

- Rod A

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Marie T

Dr. Assadipour and Iris were fantastic. This was my first root canal and they actually made the experience super relaxed. I also welcomed their dialogue and talking me through the steps along the way. Would recommend to anyone I know needing a root canal (and already have actually).

- Marie T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from James P

Wonderful experience. Dr. Menhinick was very caring, making sure I was comfortable throughout the process. She explained every step along the way. The office staff was exceedingly courteous and professional.

- James P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Joe R

I am in my 70s and never had a root canal. I had a lot of anxiety, which turned out to be unfounded. Dr. Hetz and his staff put me completely at ease. Dr. Hetz explained everything to me and did it well. You could feel his compassion and concern. He took me step by step through the process before and during the procedure. Other than the injections to prevent pain, I never felt anything, and I recovered quickly. Frankly, I never imagined that it would all go so well. I would recommend Dr. Hetz to anyone needing a root canal.

- Joe R

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Leanne T

Couldn’t be more impressed by the treatment that I received today. Dr. Simon explained the process step by step and answered all my questions. All staff members were friendly, personable and efficient. I am extremely impressed with the GentleWave technology used for my procedure. GentleWave was painless and rapid— less invasive than a deep dental cleaning. Truly a remarkable advance in endodontic treatment, both for dental health and patient comfort. Thank you, Dr. Simon and Advanced Endodontics.

- Leanne T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Robin J

Dr. Ribera has performed three root canal treatments for me. He is meticulous, compassionate, and, I believe, the office is state of the art. He explains what he is doing, including what procedures/equipment he is using that are recent innovations. He understands the patient's anxiety and carefully explains what you are experiencing and any associated sensations. I have never experienced any pain under his care. He has a thorough command of my treatment history and communicates efficiently with associated professionals from whom I am getting treatment. In my opinion, he and his team are, simply put, the best!

- Robin J

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Daniel B

Wow! Where do I begin? Let me start off by saying if you are looking for a specialists to take care of any tooth pain or handle your root canal, if you happen to find Dr. Kim Menhinick, with Advanced Endodontic Associates, you will be in great shape and no need to look any further! She is AMAZING and I will explain exactly why! First off, I have had quite a few root canals with different Endodontists and I am very familiar with the various levels of discomfort that goes along with getting a root canal! For all of these reasons, whenever you mention getting a root canal, folks gasp and immediately say “I’m so sorry”. Well, let me go ahead and say that Dr. Kim Menhinick will put all those worries and concerns to rest immediately from the very first time you see her. My first consultation appointment with her was INCREDIBLE! She was very PATIENT - listening to all of my concerns, THOROUGH - examining every single tooth in the related area, KNOWLEDGEABLE- explaining every single step she was taking and why she was taking that step, SENSITIVE - ensuring that I was not under any discomfort, and finally KIND - letting me feel like I was the most important patient in the world! On the day of my root canal procedure, Kim again explained the entire process to me, made sure I was comfortable, numbed me up really good, and we were off to the races! She took the time to make sure I was protected with the runner guard around my tooth to ensure no bacteria made it into my mouth and explained to me the signs to make with my hand if I ever felt any discomfort at all (spoiler, I never did feel any pain whatsoever). Dr. Kim Menhinick has state of the art equipment that helped to ensure my tooth was cleaned out entirely and completed the procedure very quickly! She is so great and efficient that my jaw was not even tired when she finished as she allowed me to rest my jaw a couple times which really helped! During the entire procedure she thoroughly explained what she was doing and kept me up to speed with what she was seeing. Dr. Kim Menhinick is an AMAZING Endodontist and I will recommend that all of my friends and family go to this specialist. She made a life long patient out of me! Thank you again for your amazing work!

- Daniel B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from William G

Thanks for prompt, efficient service and for playing my choice of music.

- William G

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Donald W

Although "root canals" traditionally have a reputation for being a procedure that one would like to avoid if at all possible, my experience with Advanced Endodontics Associates was exactly the opposite! Dr. Michael Ribera was great: very professionally capable with very reassuring doctor/patient "people skills." He showed me and educated me about every step of the procedure and was more than willing to answer all of my many questions. All of the rest of the DC office's staff were equally great in their respective roles... from the pleasant/calming and efficient greeting at the front desk, to the assistance of the professional dental assistants, to the capable office staff assistance in arranging payment and future appointments. Thanks to all.

- Donald W

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Bela D

The staff was wonderful, Thank you. I especially liked that Dr Simon explained every part of the procedure as we went along. Very comforting. Overall, a very congenial experience.

- Bela D

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Stephen T

Dr Hetz told me throughout the procedure what he was doing and why that step of the procedure was important and how long it would take.

- Stephen T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from France V

I was impressed by the efficiency of the harmonious team work of the dentist and his assistant treating delicately my root canal.

- France V

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Michael W

First let me say the fear I had of ever needing another root canal. But, four days before my child's wedding which was out of the country. I was having dinner and out of blue the tooth next to my front tooth started to hurt when I "tapped" it. I knew I was in trouble. Since I am in the healthcare field, I had heard about the "GentleWave" procedure and Dr. Menhinick. I waited ten days to get back to the States by taking an antibiotic so I could see Dr. Menhinick. (YMMV) I knew how important it is to remove the nerve, remove the pulp and clean the tooth to avoid re-infection. I wanted to avoid a apicoectomy in the future or loose my tooth! Dr. Menhinick took the time to explain the procedure every step of the way. After it was over, I took an OTC pain pill. (Just in case of pain after the novocaine would wear off). I never followed up with another pain pill because I did not need too! I hope I never need her services again, but, I would recommend Dr. Menhinick if I did or if someone I knew needed a root canal.

- Michael W

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Richard C

We have been to the office numerous times. All have been a pleasure....with the exception of having to go at all! The dental assistants are kind and knowledgeable, the doctors are exceptional and the “front office” beyond description! Here’s to Margaret, Jaime and Alan for making our visits so pleasant.

- Richard C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Ana M

Dr Hetz is an outstanding endodontist. He is a true professional and very nice. He is incredibly knowledgeable and explains everything he is doing in detail to make you feel so comfortable. I would not have been happier with my experience. The dental work I had done was shockingly painless. Everyone was super welcoming, genuine, professional, kind and caring. From arrival through departure, they were excellent and thoughtful in their approach and they offered a comprehensive overview of what needed to be done and why would need to be done in the future. The office is nice and inviting, and everything is state-of-the-art. I love their technology. Thanks for your expertise and hospitality!

- Ana M

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Michael T

The staff here are friendly and thorough. Dr. Assadipour walked me through her evaluation process and also provided explanations of the root canal treatment process throughout the treatment and very thoughtfully discussed what to expect for that tooth afterwards. It was clear that she was making her recommendations based on the best interest of the patient. She also took excellent care to ensure I was comfortable during the procedure. A root canal is no one's preferred way to spend an hour, and there are a lot of interesting instruments that fly past your eyes, but their demeanor and expertise with the procedure made for a good experience.

- Michael T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Norman K

Dr. Ribera and all his staff of assistants were superbly kind and helpful. Dr.Ribera himself was extremely friendly and thoughtful as well as professional .He often explained each step of the procedure and alleviated any concerns I may have had. I also enjoyed the classical music that he played during the procedure (Beethoven's Emperor Concerto).

- Norman K

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review from Mike R

- Mike R

5 out of 5 stars on