Root Canal

Endodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the nerves of the teeth. Root canals are probably the most notorious procedure in dentistry and the most common procedure relating to endodontics. When a tooth becomes infected it is usually related to the nerves in the root of the tooth. The infected nerves need to be removed. If left untreated an infection can turn into an abscess, which is a much more serious problem that includes bone loss in the jaw.

The area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to start the procedure. The dentist will then drill down into the tooth to create an opening into the canal. They will then be able to remove infected tissue and clean the canal. After the infection has been removed, the space if filled with a sealant called gutta percha. It is highly recommended that a tooth that has undergone a root canal is fitted with a crown. This will improve the appearance of the tooth, and will also make it much more likely that the root canal is successful.

"Root canal" has become a scary term for dental patients to hear, but the benefits of the procedure and advances in dental technology have made it much less "scary". Local anesthetics and proper pain medication allow the procedure to be performed with little to no pain in most cases. There may be some soreness following the procedure, but that is normal for most dental procedures. Over the counter painkillers are usually enough to relieve any pain afterwards, but your dentist may prescribe medication. The procedure will also relieve you from pain caused by the infection allowing you to enjoy all the foods you love without any pain from heat, cold, or biting too hard. If you are experiencing pain consult your dentist today.

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Primary Location

Monday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-1:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

    Elk Dental Center provides a great experience in dental care. Extremely caring staff and doctors. Most refreshingly, they don’t over-diagnose treatments like other dentists - several times they’ve told me “You have a very early stage cavity that could need a filling in the future, but for now let’s watch it until your next exam.” Well worth the drive to get there from Plymouth!

    - David K.

    Always friendly! They make sure you are comfortable too - if you’re afraid of going to the dentist, go to Elk Dental Center, they’re a great team. Receptionists are always helpful and courteous. The dentist does a thorough job and which ever one you see, all are very knowledgeable and have time for any questions. I’ve been a patient there for quite a few years - it can’t be too bad...I go every 6 months!

    - Amanda O.

    I've been going to Elk Dental Center for 35 years. I had to go somewhere else for awhile because of insurance and couldn't wait to get back. All staff is professional, friendly, and truly caring. The dental work itself is high quality. They never "over prescribe" any work, and the cash discount is greatly appreciated. They also made extra effort to get me in on short notice when I've had problems.

    - JoAnn G.

    Always so polite and pleasant to there customers. Very satisfied, I have been going to dentist off and on for thirty-five years. Moved out of state, then when moved back went back to Elk Dental Center. We drive two hours both way to get dental services at Elk Dental Center.

    - Rita S.