First Visit
Most consultation and procedures are done within the same appointment. Wichita Falls Endodontics understands that our patients have very busy lives. We will make every effort to complete your treatment in a timely and cost effective way.
Consultation Appointment
The consultation appointment usually begins with the completion of forms detailing medical and dental history, as well as any currently taken medications and signed forms of consent.
Dr. Baker will study the patient's medical and dental history and ask for a detailed description of the symptoms the patient is experiencing. Then he will conduct a thorough clinical and radiographic exam. Radiographs help reveal potential endodontic difficulties such as blocked calcified canals, unusual canal curvatures, periodontal issues, and bone quality. The radiograph provides Dr. Baker an accurate visualization of the tooth.
In addition, Dr. Baker will perform clinical tests such as gently applying heat or cold to certain teeth. This is how the dentist determines how significant the issue is and whether or not it is reversible (simply needs a filling) or irreversible (requires root canal therapy). Dr. Baker will also check the teeth for any periodontal issue that could possibly be causing you problems. A complete oral screening will be performed at every appointment.
The doctor will explain the risks and benefits of endodontic treatment and discuss any available alternatives. All questions will be answered.
It is important to save a natural tooth whenever possible. Even the very finest dental implants cannot truly replace a missing tooth. Dental implants are great solutions for missing teeth. Dental implants can take up to 12 months to complete and can be very expensive. Endodontic treatment can save a tooth in a timely, cost effective manner and prevent the tooth from being extracted. Once the Endodontic treatment has been completed it will function in the same way as an untreated natural tooth.
Root Canal Appointment
The first step of the root canal appointment is to relax. Our goal is to provide unsurpassed quality in a compassionate environment of professionalism and clinical excellence. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia to eliminate any discomfort. The small hole is placed through the crown of the tooth and the infected pulp is removed. A filling like material is placed within the tooth. The procedure is usually completed in one appointment and typically takes less than an hour and a half to complete. Most patients are surprised at the ease of the procedures. Wichita Falls Endodontics prides ourselves on exceeding expectations.
Surgical Appointment
Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays. The different procedures use local anesthetic to eliminate any discomfort. A small incision is made around the tooth and the source of infection is removed. All surgeries are considered “out-patient,” and most procedures are done in less than one hour. Patients will be able to drive themselves home unless otherwise explained by Dr. Baker. The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.
Items to Bring to your Appointment
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your appointment:
- Completed and signed medical history forms
- A signed copy of the consent form
- A signed copy of the financial statement
- Review online HIPPA form
- A list of medications you are presently taking
- Your referral slip if one was provided to you
- If applicable a copy of your medical or dental insurance card
Note all forms are available online and can be filled out in advance of the appointment. These online forms provide the patient an opportunity to fill them out within the privacy of their home and make sure all information and medications are accurate. Please take a few minutes and fill out the three PDF files prior to your appointment.
If you do not have a printer or would prefer to fill the forms out at our office, please arrive 30 minutes early to your appointment and copies will be provided to you.
IMPORTANT: All patients under the age of 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during treatment.
Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to surgery (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves or joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are on any medication (i.e. heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, bisphosphonates, etc.).
