Root Canal Treatment Corpus Christi

Are you suffering from pain and swelling surrounding a tooth, or have you noticed a new sensitivity to hold and cold beverages and foods? If infection fails to respond to more conservative treatment options, your dentist may recommend root canal therapy. 

As part of their comprehensive range of general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services, Drs. Nicholas Perry Orchard and Alejandro Vilamil offer root canal treatment to patients residing in Corpus Christi and surrounding communities. To learn whether you are a suitable candidate for root canal treatment, or to answer any questions you have regarding our care, please take the time to fill out our simple online form. 

Symptoms of Infection

Often, root canal patients are prompted to contact their care provider after suffering from a persistent toothache. Only an experienced specialist can diagnose infection and recommend treatment, but it is important to be aware of common symptoms of an infected or abscessed tooth. 

Signs of infection may include one or more of the following symptoms:

• Pain or toothache
• Red, inflamed gums
• Swelling
• Stiffness in the jaw
• Sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli 
• Inflamed lymph nodes glands under the jaw or neck

It is important to note that the resolution of these symptoms does not always mean the infection has cleared on its own. Lessening of pain and toothache, for example, can simply mean the tooth's root and nerve have been damaged to a degree that the patient no longer experiences discomfort, but the infection can spread and threaten the health of adjacent teeth. 

The Root Canal Procedure

Root canal treatment is one of the most effective ways to save a damaged tooth and the procedure boasts over a 90 percent success rate. During an examination, our office strives to make patients aware of their condition, how it impacts their oral health, and what their available treatment options are. 

Typically, root canal therapy consists of the following steps:

• A topical and local anesthetic are used to numb the site
• A hole will be drilled in the surface of the tooth, permitting access to the damaged root canals
• The decayed and infected pulp (the soft inside of the tooth) is removed using a series of graduated drills
• The insides of the tooth will be thoroughly scrubbed clean and a permanent filling material, like a specialized dental putty, may be used to fill the canals
• A dental crown or filling will be used to close the access hole and protect the tooth

In the instance of particularly challenging or complex cases, Drs. Orchard or Vilamil may refer you to a trusted endodontist, experienced in treating persistent infection. 

Learn More about Root Canal Treatment

Many patients in need of root canal therapy are hesitant to seek care due to fear of pain or financial worries. At our practice, we use proven numbing techniques ensuring our patients' comfort throughout every step of treatment and have flexible financing options available, including CareCredit®, for customized payment plans. Restorative care is an investment in your oral health. Schedule an appointment today to meet with us and learn more about whether a root canal is right for you.