Root Canal Treatment in Corpus Christi, TX

At Tide Dental & Orthodontics in Corpus Christi, TX, we understand how much pain and discomfort can be caused by a damaged or infected tooth. Root canal treatment is a common and effective solution for saving a tooth that has been damaged or infected. Our experienced endodontists are here to provide high-quality root canal treatment, ensuring you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the process.

img-Root-Canal

What Is A Root Canal?

A root canal is a treatment that removes the infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. The pulp refers to the delicate tissue that comprises nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp is infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and discomfort.

Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp and cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth. Afterward, the tooth is packed and sealed using a dental filling or crown to hinder any additional infection or harm.

When Is A Root Canal Needed?

A root canal is typically needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. Possible reasons for requiring a root canal are deep decay, tooth trauma, or a crack/chip in the tooth. Symptoms that may signify the necessity of a root canal are:

  • Severe toothache
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Swelling or tenderness in the gums
  • Discoloration of the tooth
  • Pain when chewing or biting

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, scheduling an appointment with our team as soon as possible is essential. Delaying treatment can result in further damage or infection, leading to more extensive and costly treatment.

img-What-happens-during-a-root-canal

The Root Canal Process

  1. Evaluation: The first step is to evaluate the tooth and determine if a root canal is necessary. This involves a physical examination and, potentially, x-rays to assess the extent of the damage or infection.
  2. Anesthesia: Before the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring you are comfortable and pain-free during the treatment.
  3. Removal of the Pulp: After numbing the area, the endodontist will create a tiny opening at the top of the tooth to eliminate the infected or damaged pulp. Subsequently, the interior of the tooth is cleaned and sterilized.
  4. Filling and Sealing: Following the elimination of the pulp and disinfection of the tooth's interior, a rubber-like substance is utilized to fill the tooth. Finally, a dental filling or crown is utilized to seal the tooth, preventing any future infection or damage.
  5. Follow-up Care: After the procedure, our team will provide instructions for caring for your tooth and may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics if necessary. It is essential to follow all instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and recovery.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment has many benefits, including:

  • Relieving pain and discomfort caused by an infected or damaged tooth
  • Preserving a tooth that would otherwise necessitate extraction.
  • Preventing further damage or infection
  • Restoring the function and appearance of the tooth with a dental filling or crown

At Tide Dental & Orthodontics, we are committed to providing high-quality root canal treatment in Corpus Christi, TX, to our patients. If you are experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, contact us today to schedule an evaluation and determine if a root canal is a proper treatment.