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.

Healthy Tooth

Tooth Anatomy

Inflammation

Cleaned Canals

Filling Placed

Healed Tooth
Endodontic Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of endodontic therapy, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to root canals 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.
Samuel J. Mumpower DMD, Jack B. Smith DMD PC
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great experience in Dr. Mumpower's office today! It was my first root canal. I had tons of anxiety about having it done so I know I was not the easiest patient! He and his staff were kind and went above and beyond to make me comfortable. They are very thorough and professional! I would highly recommend Dr. Mumpower!
- Kelly R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
By far best appt in understanding, process and how they care. Over all practice is wonderful
- Amanda A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thank you so much for seeing me quickly and a very east procedure
- Melanie D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Best dentist experience to date. Root canal with zero pain.
- Skyler W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great experience
- Hannah C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I will recommend this office to my friends and family!
- Missy L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This office is amazing! Dr. Mumpower and his team are so professional and caring. Denise was the dental assistant who helped and she was great. She and Dr. Mumpower made me feel so comfortable! I could not have asked for a better dental experience!
- Summer B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Go to Dr. Smith and his staff. The office is clean, comfortable, and everyone was nice. I cannot think of any other medical establishments with professionals that are as kind as these folks are.
- W D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was very well taken care of and felt in very good hands.
- Anthony B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Could not be better treatment , on all levels.
- (Clarence) Paul S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was literally worried sick over the idea of a root canal. I have never had such a wonderful dental experience as I had today. Dr. Mumpower was phenomenal. I would highly recommend to anyone!
- Maegan C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I will be returning if need be and recommend others
- Gabriella M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I am so thankful that I was referred to Dr. Mumpower. I have anxiety in the dental chair and he immediately put me at ease. He explained every single step to me and didn't do anything until I completely understood. It was such a comfort to me and best of all ZERO pain. Thank you Dr. Mumpower!
- Tracey B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr Mumpower and his staff were so friendly and helped my nervousness disappear immediately. I will definitely be recommending them to friends in the future.
- Kendall W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The staff and Doctor were amazing!
- Virginia M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thank you for making something scary and stressful easy and comfortable.
- Krista H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Perfection! Thank you!
- Jessica S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Staff and endodontist were fantastic! Everyone is informative and willing to help every step of the way. They made me feel much more relaxed and comfortable about the process.
- Tonya D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very good experience. No pain during my visit. Would come back.
- Betty E
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great experience and would highly recommend!
- Aimee M