As root canal specialists, we work with general dentists and other dental specialists to provide you with the best possible multi-disciplinary care. We utilize state of the art, modern dental technologies in our practice to realize the goals of our patients. After conducting a thorough examination, we will discuss your treatment options, providing you with as much detailed information as possible. We are here to help you and answer your questions related to your dental treatment at Endodontic Services, Inc.

At the present time, 20 million root canals are performed each year on dental patients. The long term success of this treatment is over 90%! Root canal treatment, also called endodontic treatment, involves relieving pain and discomfort by removing the nerve tissue (pulp) located in the center of the tooth and its root or roots (the root canal). Treatment involves making an access opening through the biting surface of the tooth to expose the pulp. The pulp tissue is removed with very fine metal files. Medication may be placed within the canals help sterilize the interior of the tooth if there is a significant infection present.

Each empty root canal is filled with a rubber-like material called gutta percha and medicated cement. Occasionally a metal post is also inserted into the canal to help support a new crown. After root canal treatment we close the opening in the tooth with a temporary filling. After your root canal treatment is completed your dentist will place a permanent filling, and a crown (also called a cap) may be placed.

Twisted, curved or blocked root canals may prevent removal of all inflamed or infected pulp. Leaving any pulp in the root canal may cause your symptoms to worsen. If the pulp tissue cant be removed you may need an additional procedure called an apicoectomy. Through a small opening cut in the gum and bone, the root tip is removed and the root canal is sealed. An apicoectomy may also be required if your symptoms continue after your treatment has been completed and your tooth does not heal.

Once the root canal treatment is completed, it is essential to return promptly to your dentist to have your tooth properly restored. Because a temporary filling is designed to last only a short time (about six to eight weeks), failing to return to your dentist as directed to have the tooth sealed permanently with a crown can lead to the deterioration of the seal, resulting in decay, infection, gum disease and the possible premature loss of the tooth. Root fractures can also occur if you fail to have the tooth properly covered by your general dentist.

Root canal treatment is intended to allow you to keep your tooth for a longer period, which will help to maintain your natural bite and the healthy functioning of your jaws. There is no substitute for the natural tooth as good as the tooth itself, so we strongly feel that if the tooth can be saved, it is in your best interest to try and save it. However, if the tooth cannot be saved, there are several good alternatives. Extracting your tooth is the most common alternative to root canal treatment. This alternative may require replacing the extracted tooth with a removable or fixed bridge or an artificial tooth called an implant.

Kylie is our newest employee at Endodontic Services, Inc. and serves as a dental assistant. She was recently granted permanent placement on staff at Endodontic Services, Inc! Kylie is following in the footsteps of a family member and looking to seek a career in the dental field. Kylie loves to help others and has a compassionate nature. She will make sure you are comfortable throughout your root canal process. We look forward to working with her and teaching her our standards of care!

Patsy is our main front receptionist and front office billing manager for our South Bend facility. Patsy is full of life and can make just about anyone have a great day! Patsy possesses the special talent to make billing and insurance issues interesting and understandable, helping our patients have a smoother financial transition to their dental care. Patsy helps to negotiate insurance coverages on behalf of patients and loves to see a patient get a fair-rate of that coverage. Patsy gives her personal best every day, all day. Patsy has a son and has been married to her loving husband for over 30 years. She has 2 dogs in which she loves to take for walks on her spare time.

Lindsey is our Office Manager and Hipaa Compliance Officer at Endodontic Services, Inc. She makes sure that our offices, both South Bend and Elkhart run smoothly day to day and oversees the business operations. Whether she is performing quality assurance, public relations, ordering dental supplies, or delegating responsibilities to ensure continuation of care, she will act as a liaison to both our doctors and staff members. Lindsey enjoys working with our referring general dental offices and staff to help the community and serve patients that are in need of root canal therapy. It brings her great joy at the end of the day to go home to her two boys, knowing she full-filled her day by day helping others.

Patti has been a dedicated employee at Endodontic Services, Inc. for 47 years! She is highly trained in the field known as endodontics and started when she was only 18 years old. Her exceptional skill set will help you to have a positive dental experience, whether this is your first root canal or a return visit to our office. Patti has been married to her loving husband of 44 years. She enjoys the outdoors and her annual vacation with her family and friends in Northern, MI.

Terri has been a dental assistant at Endodontic Services, Inc. since 1976! She has worked to strive in the improvement of endodontic procedures to enhance patient experiences over the eras for patient and create successful outcomes. With her years of experience, Terri has a lot of knowledge based around the equipment necessary during root canal treatments. Terri will always try her best to make you comfortable while in her dental chair and answer questions you may have during and after treatment. She enjoys her weekends spending time with family and loves her adorable kittens!

Bridget is another long time, experienced dental assistant of over 35 years! Bridget treats every patient with TLC and you will find her listening and caring for each patient concern. Her love for dental assisting started early in life, for she began her career at the age of 23. Ever since patient care and seeing that others are out of pain has been her #1 priority, she truly enjoys her job at Endodontic Services, Inc. After hours, she spends her time with 2 daughters and a puppy named, Achoo.

Dr. Risser received a B.A. in biology from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana in 1994. He continued his education at the Indiana University School of Dentistry where he graduated with Distinction in 1998.

After one year of private practice in Avon, Indiana, he returned to the dental school for two years of graduate Endodontic training. In 2001, he received his Certificate in Endodontics and a Masters of Science in Dentistry. Upon completion of his training, he moved to South Bend and joined Dr. Feltman in his well established endodontic practice.

Currently, Dr. Risser lives in South Bend, Indiana and enjoys spending quality time with his wife Rebecca Risser and family. He and his wife, Rebecca, love to travel and are always seeking out new and exciting destinations. When home, he also enjoys playing golf, tennis, and going for a nice run.

Dr. Risser is an active member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), the Indiana Dental Association (IDA), and the North Central Dental Society (NCDS).