Root Canal Therapy
What is root canal therapy?
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, in most cases, will feel 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.
Missouri Dental Specialists, LLC
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great place
- Nancy Mahrer
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Wonderful staff and DOCTOR!
- Tina C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great experience.
- Leslie A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very pleasant experience, will return if I have any more problems…
- Chris B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr Larsen and his assistant Kaylann did an outstanding job. Thanks for a job well done!
- Thomas G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Less pain for root canal than crown.
- Donna S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Greatly appreciated was the quickness in scheduling my appointment for a root canal. The doctors, hygenists and front office were all fantastic! I would highly recommend them and will see them again should the need for further procedures.
- Norman R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Amazing staff and quick
- Daniela B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I have to admit I somehow made it to retirement age never having personally experienced a root canal . When talking with my friends/family about having to have the procedure- the stories they told were worse than stories those same people told me when I was pregnant. I was not looking forward to the procedure- but was looking forward to hope that my tooth would stop throbbing ! My experience with Dr Jansson (and his amazing staff) was excellent. I would highly recommend them to all! And my story - well it's a good one with a happy ending.
- Sandra E
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr Jansson and his staff are the best. Hands down the fastest and easiest root canal I have ever had. I recommend him to all my friends and family.
- Jarrod B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very polite staff. I can't say enough about them. 10 stars.
- Dennis H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had a two-part visit for a retreatment. On the 2nd visit, Jenna, the dental assistant was pleasant and comforting. I was given light blocking glasses, offered a pillow and blanket for my comfort and my comfort level my constantly monitored throughout the visit. The 2nd part of retreatment process was surprisingly pain free. I highly recommend this dental office for their superb service.
- Constance C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Every medical professional should take lessons from Dr. Jansson and staff on how to make a patient feel valued and comfortable. They were kind and comforting. The root canal was painless. Highly recommend.
- Rita S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I would difently go back to this office. Theu made me feel so comfortable I could have feel asleep in the chair. They deserve more the 5 stars
- Kimberly B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
All in all-the experience was very professional and courteous. I had 2 root canals in 2 months, both with Dr. Larsen and each went very well. A little soreness the next day, but that is to be expected. I would definitely recommend this practice for your endodontist needs.
- Chris P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had a root canal procedure and it was done efficiently, timely, and surprisingly pain free! Dr. Larsen and Elise were very professional and friendly. All the staff I encountered were very friendly and helpful. The time I entered the office and exited after the procedure was an hour and 18 minutes. That’s efficiency and as I mentioned pain free. Thank you for a pleasant experience (and how is that for a comment on a root canal?!).
- Terry H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My experience at Missouri Dental Specialists went above expectations. Dr. Larsen and Elise demonstrated excellence in professionalism, knowledge, and patient care. I had a root canal to save my tooth and Dr. Larsen and Elise explained my procedure and gave pertinent advise and guidance. I felt completely confident that Dr. Larson and Elise completed the procedure in a manner that was efficient and thorough. I greatly appreciate my experience and the great patient care I received. I will highly recommend Missouri Dental Specialists, Dr. Larsen and Elise.
- Sue Ann C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Chantelle made me feel comfortable through the whole process. She was by my side and explained everything they were doing.
- Lisa W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My experience was much, much better than I expected. I opted for the nitrous oxide sedation which helped with my anxiety. The actual dental procedure went very smoothly and was essentially pain free. Dr. Jansenn is simply the best. He is highly skilled and works quickly. I highly recommend his practice for any work you might need from an odontologist. I was very impressed and extremely grateful to have my root canal over and done with virtually pain free. His staff is top-notch as well. Overall, best dental experience I’ve ever had !
- Thomas W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Erick Jansson and Staff are an amazing team! I so dreaded my root canal and not only was my experience painless, but they made sure I was comfortable and completely at ease during. I would highly recommend Missouri Dental Specialists!!
- Dee K