(I also posted this review on Dr. McNicholas' page.) Over the summer I had a couple of really bad tooth flare-outs over the span of three months that were diagnosed as probable root canals, but between student loans and unemployment I couldn't afford to get them taken care of. 4-7 months after the teeth had died (and one had been abscessing pretty disgustingly for a few months), I finally decided to bite the financial bullet and get the work done while I was visiting my parents for Christmas. I followed up on my four-month-old referral from my regular dentist, and was happy to discover that their root canals were $400 cheaper than the going rate in San Francisco (where I currently live). The staff at Laguna Hills Endo was extremely accommodating in terms of getting me scheduled on short notice (I wanted to get back up north ASAP), and I managed to secure two appointments 3 days apart within a week of my first phone call. Regarding Dr. McNicholas specifically, these were my first root canals so I have nothing to compare them to, but I have to say they were more pleasant than any of the fillings I've gotten over the years. The novocaine shots at the beginning were the worst part, and they weren't even that bad. I would probably say that the root canals felt better than getting the crowns put on! Both teeth ended up having super curvy roots and having an extra canal (which I didn't get charged for), but he just patiently sat with me for an hour and a half each time and made sure he got the job done carefully and right. I never felt any pain or discomfort, he talked me through the whole thing, and called me the evening after each procedure to make sure I was doing okay. He is an incredibly sweet and caring man, and an excellent doctor. I'd definitely trust him with any future endodontic work. read more

Dr mcnichols came highly recommended as he was honest and conservative specialists. My experience with young medical practitioners is they have so much debt they are eager to do work in an attempt to pay down their ever growing loans. Dr mcnichols introduced himself as Steve and did a really nice evaluation of my tooth. He was very gentle and asked frequently about my comfort level. He was wonderful. His staff is friendly and professional. Dr Steve even called this evening to ensure that I was feeling ok and not in any pain. Finally, all members of his staff and Dr Steve are VERY nice on your eyes. My next root canal...I will not hesitate to see Dr Steve!! read more

When a dentist (in this case endodontist) doesn't cause pain, you consider he or she a great dentist. And, as a layman, there may not be anything else to judge. In the case of Saddleback Valley Endo and in particular, Dr. McNicholas, there is. His calming demeanor and soothing voice starts the excellent experience. His careful explanation of every step (I had root canal therapy) is reassuring and his thanking his assistant every time she handed him an instrument showed what kind of a gentleman he is. So, while I would hope not to need another root canal if I did there is no doubt I'd be knocking on Saddleback's door. And, by the way, no pain during the procedure or after the procedure. I feel good, my tooth feels good, life feels good. Thanks Dr. McNicholas. read more

Went in for a root canal, off a reference from the family dentist. They made me feel comfortable and there was no discomfort and pain in involved, which is always a great thing. I even got to watch a cheesy movie while the procedure took place. All places should do that! read more

Just left an appointment at Laguna Hills Endo. I was treated (root canal) by Dr Jonsson and his assistant Jasmine. They were an incredible team! If having a root canal can be a Great experience I just had one! Highly recommend Dr Jonsson. I personally wouldn't go anywhere else! read more

I love this office! So, like a lot of people, I am not a fan of having my teeth worked on. I was referred to Dr. Jönsson by my dentist and I'm so glad I was. I went in dreading a root canal and by the time I left my fear of this procedure was gone. Dr. Jönsson showed and explained all of my xrays to help me understand what my issues were. He also told me step by step what was happening as he was doing the procedure which actually put me at ease. My only regret is that I didn't come here sooner. The office staff was just as awesome as the doctor. Everyone was friendly, compassionate and professional. I HIGHLY recommend Dr. Jönsson and this office. read more

It is probably everyone's fear that miles from home and weeks away from returning one has a dental emergency.. Mine was losing a major molar filling this week while visiting my twin sister in Dana Point (I am from Boston) . A visit to her own dentist revealed substantial decay that had been under the filling. Fortunately her dentist was able to make an appointment for at Saddleback Valley Endodontics for that same day, Dr. Lars Bjorn Jonsson assisted by Danielle did a triple root canal procedure and put a temporary seal on the tooth which will protect the tooth until I can get a permanent crown when I return to New England. Dr. Jonsson was incredible - competent, reassuring, gracious and skillful (he has a Diplomate from the American Board of Endodontics). Most appreciated was that he asked me at the start of the three hour procedure whether I would like to understand what he was doing as he worked or would prefer just to listen to the music. I told him that I found it helpful to know what was going on - and by the end of the visit felt that I had finally understood the physiology of my own teeth! I got solid advice on how to manage pain and protect the tooth while I traveled AND a follow up text message later in the evening to make sure I was feeling ok! Great Operation! read more

I dislike anything medical related...seriously. With that being said, the staff and Dr. Steven over at LHE were nothing short of amazing. I had a root canal done and am the biggest baby when it comes to pain. He was very gentle and talked me through the whole thing, not to mention a perfectionist. When it comes to these things I'd rather have things take a little longer and get it done right than the other way around. I won't go anywhere else for (god forbid) any other endo appts I need to make. read more

Dr. Jönsson is excellent! Great specialist who did my root canal on a molar. Very professional! Love how he explains everything he's doing during the procedure! I was referred by nearby Dr. Tamer Shalaby who is great also! The entire staff is extremely friendly and professional also! Thank you Dr. Jönsson for a comfortable and pain free experience! read more

I've had a fair share of horrific root canals done in the past and I can honestly say that Dr. Jonsson has been the only one to give me a great experience. He is knowledgeable and honest, and makes you feel very comfortable through the entire procedure. I would refer him to anybody! (I was not asked to write a yelp, but felt the absolutely need to due to my amazing experience) Thank you Dr. Jonsson!! read more

Dr. Jonsson is the most caring and kind Dr. He explains every step of the procedure. You will always know what's coming next which I very much appreciate. I was fearful walking in. Who wants to go see an Endodontist? And then I fell asleep in the chair during the procedure as I was so relaxed. You cannot go wrong with Dr Jonsson and his team, they are the best! read more

I don't even know how to explain Dr. McNicholas and his assistant Anza and the whole staff really. I was in severe pain and they squeezed me in and performed a root canal on me. First one I have ever had and I was expecting some pain. ZERO pain. Not even slight pain. ZERO and I was in terrible condition going in. His technique along with his assistants it was like magic. That saying where they say I'd rather have a bad day fishing then the good day at work. Well I'd rather go get another root canal then either one of those. Completely mastered the work. Dr. McNicholas himself even called me later on in the day to make sure I was doing okay. So impressed and happy with the work done and pain free. read more

Well, seems this group has consistent rave reviews which doesn't surprise me at all. I had never required a root canal and both Dr. Jonsson and his professional staff were incredibly accommodating, responsive and tailored my care to exactly what would make me feel most comfortable and taken care of. From a squeeze ball (for my fear not pain) to describing all the steps involved, reassuring, and instilling true confidence in the work which was stellar. From a technical standpoint, Dr. Jonsson was thorough, meticulous and very gracious. In the final phase of replacing my temporary crown, he was extremely detailed to fit it perfectly so that there would be no chance of discomfort. He followed up with me via text at 8pm to be sure I was doing well- that's above and beyond and so inspiring to see such dedication and a genuine passion for patient care. I won't bat an eye about needing their services again! Truly Exceptional. read more

I've been to Dr. McNicholas twice now for root canals and each time he has been fantastic. Calm, patient, explaining everything as he goes along. I felt no pain during the procedure and his work has been impeccable both times. One of the most reassuring and calming doctors I've ever met. read more

Dr. Jonsson was kind and strong and professional. His assistant I LOVE! She made me feel comfortable and at ease. So warm!!!

I have had two root canals in this office, and these doctors are amazing. Dr. McNicholas did the first one, and he was so thorough that he discovered that while most molars have 3 roots, mine had 4. The second one was done by Dr. Jonsson. He took a great deal of time to make a careful diagnosis and he saved a tooth that my dentist feared would have to be extracted. Both doctors are clearly at the top of their games, use the latest technology, and take great care to be thorough and successful. The shots to numb the area had the usual sting, but after that there was literally no pain and both doctors made every effort to make me as comfortable as possible. They were also very willing to explain the procedures and answer all my questions. They are real experts and I recommend them without reservation. read more

Dr. Jonsson is the best. He took care of me in one visit and took time to explain the procedure (A new treatment technology, GentleWave by Sonendo). It was pain and stress free. Dr. Jonsson even called me that evening to see how I was doing. What a great customer and treatment experience. Dr. Jonsson, you rock!! :-) read more

Again full disclosure, I didn't have services provided by them and it was based on customer service over the phone. I've had repeated high recommendations by my dental providers so I assume the doctor are good. But there were red flags to me. So I had some tooth pain, been to several dentists to find the reason. Prop Endodontists and dentists have told me that nothing is wrong with my root. Ok so why is there pain? So I suffered because no one could help me. So I was referred by my orthodontist and I trust him whole heartedly. I call saddleback endo and I first explain that I've had the same "endo" tests of X-ray, tapping and grinding and everyone has told me that there's nothing wrong with the root. I understand they want their own baseline and tests and it would be nice not to have to repeat the same tests and waste money but again I understand. MY question is, if the same tests have to be repeated what OTHER tests can be done as well because I don't wanna waste my time. So the receptionist didn't give me a straight forward answer except that "this is the way we always do things" and "we take payment in advance for consults and ct's". This is annoying. You're in network and I have great insurance. Btw I know insurance because I have my own clients and submit financials for them. So if you're in network, why can't you verify my benefits before I come in? Ok whatever, but you see my dilemma, I have to pay upfront for repeated tests? But my insurance will cover the appointment consult at 100%. So I booked the appointment and called my insurance company. Because I wanted to get clarification on this. Apparently specialist like to collect up front. So I called later in the week before my appointment, to hopefully talk to another receptionist because I wanted better answers about the consult visit clarification on what it entails. So I find out that they scheduled me for a root canal!!!! I was so mad. This is what happened at the other endodontist who stated " there's nothing wrong with your root but we can still do a root canal." Who does this? I clearly stated that I had repeated professionals tell me that I didn't need one and I ONLY wanted a second opinion if there were additional tests that I haven't done. No treatment yet. I would never schedule a potential client of mine for an expensive test without their consent or if I heard hesitation in their voice. The second receptionist said "in sorry I don't know why that was scheduled without you knowing." So long story short I cancelled. And turns out I didn't need a root canal and I finally figured out the issue. Again, I've heard high recommendations for the the endontists themselves. But beware of tactics to get you to pay and attend prior to knowing what is expected. I'm sure every doctors office may have these issues with certain staff however in my previous experience, it's he staff who has TRIED to pressured me and push services most of the time. So be careful. Ask for prior authorizations, know your benefits if you have them and ask questions before agreeing to services. read more

I just got done with my first-ever root canal at Saddleback Valley Endodontics and my experience was more than wonderful - and this is coming from somebody that has an extreme anxiety about dentistry. Dr Jonnnson is so caring and has one of the best bed side manners I've experienced as a patient and a healthcare professional. He is so kind and makes you feel so comfortable in the chair. He makes sure you're not in pain, tends to your stress and anxiety, and gives his full attention when asking a question of any sort. If I ever need an Endodontist again I will without a doubt see Dr Johnson again. And to top it off all of his staff is incredible. They take their time to explain everything to you including any billing questions, questions from the dental assistant, and the receptionist was kind and did not feel rushed to "get me back". I was in and out of the appointment within 2 hours; and this included consultation, x ray, CT scan and more. The whole procedure on the infected molar took no more than an hour to complete. If you have any anxiety or fear of dentistry or root canals do not hesitate to call this office for the best care. Thank you Dr and staff for your amazing treatment and friendly care!! read more

Dr Jönsson is by far the best Dentist I've ever been to. He spent so much time with me to make sure the best decision was made for the treatment I would need. He made sure that I new every step of the way what he was doing. I was so nervous to go in to get dental work done, and he went out of his way to make me feel so comfortable. He is the nicest and most knowledgeable Doctor. I can not speak high enough about him Thank you so much Dr Jönsson! And the rest of the staff is so friendly too read more

As a healthcare provider, I know what excellent treatment is and what it means to patients for a doctor to have a caring bedside manner. You will find both with Dr. Steve McNicholas and his staff. I came to him with a challenging case. He explained all of my options, made sure that I understood the pluses and minuses of each and continued his explanations throughout the treatment. I was so comfortable throughout the treatment that I felt myself dozing off. "I have had haircuts that were worse". If you find yourself in need of endodontic care, you should not hesitate to be put in the capable hands of Dr. Steve McNicholas. read more

The best office by far! They are all nice and calming. Very happy!

I want to start by saying I NEVER write reviews for anything but this guy is just amazing at what he does. I had to get a root canal done here and it went as well as it could go. No pain whatsoever! Lastly he called me a couple hours later just to make sure everything was okay. Highly recommend him for anyone who needs a root canal read more

What a wonderful experience this was! I know that a root canal cannot be good in any way but, honestly, this was as it good as it gets. The staff was efficient, professional, kind and considerate. The financial details were honest, even refunding me the overpayment once they'd received my insurance. Dr. Johnson was caring, sensitive, talked me through the whole procedure, and made sure I understood my options. He even called and texted me to find out how I was doing afterwards. The rooms are spotless, the nurses wonderful, Dr. Johnson can't be beat and I thoroughly recommend them! read more

Referred to this office by my regular dentist because I needed a root canal. I came to the office, scared to death. never had this type of problem before. Dr. McNicholas was an absolute doll. Very professional and skilled. He was most concerned for my comfort and had the "Magic motion" hand wiggle when injecting the novocaine and I didn't even feel it. My tooth was a complex repair, way in the back with crooked root pattern. He explained everything he did, in a very gentle way, and I found myself almost falling asleep during a root canal !!! this evening , he called just to follow up and make sure I was ok and to see if I needed anything. HIGH MARKS for Dr. Steve McNicholas !! Expert and definitely knows his craft. I would recommend him to anyone. thank you! read more

I had the pleasure ( I know Endodontist give no pleasure ) but Dr Steven Mc Nicolas was by the best I have ever been too. He is "Amazing" as Huell Howser would say. When I entered the room his demeanor immediately put me at ease. I was amazed he finished 2 root canals in less than an hr and a half with no and I mean No pain. I had them done at 10:15 am and at 12:30 am I am feeling fine. If you are looking for the best at a reasonable price he is the Only one to got to. Thanks Dr Alan Nguyen ( Crown Valley Dental) for referring me to him. Look no further Dr Steven is one of the best around. Thanks Doc you did a great job. read more

I was sent to see Dr Lars Jonsson last Mon. I feared that I needed a re-root canal. After waiting a long time, Dr Jonsson came in, apologizing profusely. He didn't offer excuses, but was genuinely sorry. He put me at ease & discovered that it was a popcorn kernel wedged in my gum that caused the trouble. He assured me no further dentistry was needed and that he would cover the appointment cost for my inconvenience of the long wait. I will surely use & recommendation this office in the future! read more

Dr.Mcnicholas is as good as it can get! I have had to get two root canals in one month and with Dr. Mcnicholas and it was a breeze (that is saying a lot for a root canal!). He is so professional and so kind that I never had to think twice about going any where else! The office staff is lovely and the professional care is top notch! If you are in need of great endodontic work look no further! I can not thank him and his staff enough for getting me in so quickly and getting rid of my tooth pain by 100%. Shayna G. read more

Dr. McNicholas and his assistant Jasmine work like a well oiled machine. They know their stuff. No pain during or after the roof canal. I glad my dentist Dr Rob Herriod recommended Dr McNicholas. If you a root canal done this is the guy ........ PS got a call from Dr McNicholas at home about 8:30 pm just checking to see if was OK. I was surprised at the call, never had that level of concern for a doctor before... Thank You read more

Amazing Endodontist. I was on holidays in Laguna when I felt extreme pain, due to the bad surgery I had done the week before in SF. Dr Lars Jonsson gave me an appointment literally 30 min after we called. He took very good care of me and spent all the necessary time (couple hours) to find out what was going on and help me. He is very good as it was a tricky case but he solved it. His equipments are high-end (CT-scan...). His staff is very attentionate and serious, after my appointment they kindly sent all reports and images to my dentist in SF and myself. I do not wish anyone to have to go to the endodontist, but if you do, this is definitely the best place to go. read more

Dr. McNicholas is the best! He is a very nice man. I was referred to him by my dentist and he was able to fit me into his schedule to perform a root canal. The procedure went well! I didn't feel any pain (just from giving me the pain medication). He throughly explained the whole process and made me feel very comfortable. His assistant was very nice too. They work very well together. I highly recommend Dr. McNicholas and I would certainly come to him for any future procedures. read more

He is a FABULOUS doctor. So patient, so kind, takes his time, explains everything in detail and makes you feel so secure. I had awful "referred" pain on both my upper and lower jaw, and he quickly identified the tooth that needed the root canal using dry ice. This doctor is spot-on and I cannot imagine a better experience if I had to have another one..hopefully not, but I would be back with Dr. McNicholas in a heartbeat. read more

Unfortunately, I am a veteran root canal patient! I've had quite a few but the best endodontists are here! Any one of these caring Drs. will treat you like you're family (except gotta pay!) and will explain the whole procedure along the way! Always referring Dr. Jonsson & Dr. McNicholas & Dr. Wilkinson to hurting friends! Thank you Drs! read more

I echo all of the amazing reviews listed here already! Dr. Jönsson was attentive, took his time, was very sensitive to my prior experience of difficulty in getting numbed up and made sure I was absolutely comfortable throughout the procedure. This was my first root canal and he is an excellent patient educator and very good at managing post-procedure expectations, as well. His assistant, Denise, as well as Andrea in the front office made this a truly great experience. Thank you all! read more

Yesterday I had a root canal performed by Dt. Jonsson. I can't begin to articulate how professional, caring, thorough and compassionate Dr Jonsson is. He was patient explaining the process, and wanted to make sure I was comfortable. He made the experience painless and I know the root canal was performed perfectly. He even text me last night to make sure I was doing alright. I can recommend him whole heartedly and completely. I promise you, you won't be disappointed. He is very skilled and any expectations you've received because of my reviews, will be exceeded!! Great office staff supports Dr Jonsson as well! read more

No one wants a root canal but if you need one then Dr. Jonsson and his colleagues and staff are the only folks you should see. As others have said, the office is immaculate and the staff welcoming and extremely professional. Dr. Jonsson helped me understand the problem and kept me informed throughout the procedure...which was performed immediately after the diagnosis (a good thing - less time to worry). He was calm, patient, gentle and very professional. The procedure was extremely successful and i was able to defer an appointment to get a crown until my personal dentist recovered from hip surgery. The 5 star rating is well deserved. read more

I was in terrible pain for about a week when I finally couldn't take it anymore. I called them and they made room for me that same day to come in and get my tooth checked. When I got there everyone in that building was so nice to me. Once the doctor met with me he could tell that I was in serious pain and told me he could do a root canal for me right then and there. I can't even begin to explain how relieved I was when he told me that. Once the procedure was done I already felt 100 times better than I did all week long. You guys are the best and thank you so much for helping me out! read more

My dentist referred me to dr Jonnson to save my front tooth. Root canal and bone graft, successful result, no pain during or after, nice office and staff. I liked the doctor very much. read more

Great! I had a crown put on and it was bothering me for over a year. I then had a root canal done by Dr. Jonsson and I am no longer in pain! :) The procedure was a breeze - no pain whatsoever! If you need a root canal, don't be afraid! He will numb you. You just lay back, close your eyes and relax. You'll wish you had it done sooner. read more

Had to have a root canal. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Everyone in the office was great, and Dr. Jonsson was one of the most impressive dentists I've ever met (and infortunately, I've met plenty). read more