*Most consultation and procedures are done within the same appointment
Wichita Falls Endodontics is open Monday - Thursday from 7:45 AM until 5 PM, and Fridays by Appointment Only. Our goal is to provide accessible care with exceptional service. We will schedule your appointment as promptly as possible. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day. We try our best to stay on schedule to minimize your waiting. We understand that our patient’s time is valuable. Due to the fact that Wichita Falls Endodontics provides surgical services, various circumstances may lengthen the time allocated for a procedure. Emergency cases can also arise and can possibly cause delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
During your first visit, we strive to make the experience as comfortable and informative as possible. The appointment begins with completing forms that provide important details about your medical and dental history, as well as any medications you’re currently taking. You will also be asked to sign consent forms before proceeding with treatment. Dr. Baker will review your medical and dental history and discuss the symptoms you're experiencing in detail to better understand your condition.
Next, Dr. Baker will perform a comprehensive clinical exam and may take radiographs (X-rays) of your teeth. These X-rays are essential in revealing potential endodontic issues such as blocked or calcified canals, unusual canal curvatures, periodontal concerns, and bone quality, helping Dr. Baker get an accurate visualization of the tooth. To further assess the problem, he may apply gentle heat or cold to certain teeth to determine whether the issue is reversible (requiring only a filling) or irreversible (indicating the need for a root canal). Dr. Baker will also check for any periodontal problems that could be contributing to your symptoms, and a complete oral screening will be performed at every visit.
After the exam and diagnostic tests, Dr. Baker will discuss the risks and benefits of endodontic treatment and explain any available alternatives. He will take time to answer all your questions, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision about your care. It’s important to remember that saving a natural tooth is always a priority. While dental implants are a good solution for missing teeth, they cannot fully replace the function of a natural tooth. Endodontic treatment is a timely, cost-effective option that can save your tooth and prevent extraction. After treatment, your tooth will function just like a natural tooth, preserving your smile and maintaining optimal oral health.
The first step of your root canal appointment is to relax. At Wichita Falls Endodontics, we are committed to providing exceptional care in a compassionate and professional environment. Our goal is to ensure you feel at ease throughout the process, and we strive to exceed your expectations.The procedure typically begins with the administration of local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free during the treatment. Dr. Baker will then create a small opening in the crown of the affected tooth to access the infected pulp. The damaged pulp is carefully removed, and a biocompatible filling material is placed inside the tooth to restore its function. Root canal therapy is usually completed in a single appointment, usually taking about an hour. Many patients are surprised by how easy and comfortable the procedure is. At Wichita Falls Endodontics, we take pride in delivering outstanding results and ensuring your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Endodontic surgery may be recommended to locate fractures or hidden canals that aren't visible on standard X-rays. These procedures are performed with local anesthesia to ensure you experience no discomfort. A small incision is made around the affected tooth, allowing Dr. Baker to access and remove the source of infection.
All endodontic surgeries are considered "out-patient" procedures and are typically completed in less than one hour. Most patients are able to drive themselves home after the surgery unless Dr. Baker provides specific instructions otherwise.
The most common surgery performed to save a damaged tooth is an apicoectomy (also known as a root-end resection), which involves removing the tip of the tooth’s root to eliminate infection and promote healing.
To help ensure a smooth and efficient visit, please bring these items with you to your appointment:
- Completed and signed medical history forms
-Your driver's license/physical form of identification
-A list of medications you are currently taking
-Your referral slip (if provided)
-A copy of your medical or dental insurance card (if applicable)
Convenient Online Forms
All of these forms are available online and can be filled out before your appointment. Completing them in advance allows you to ensure all information and medications are accurate, and you can do so in the privacy of your home. Please take a few minutes to fill out the three PDF forms before your visit.
Forms can be accessed here
Completing Forms at the Office
If you do not have access to a printer or prefer to fill out the forms in person, we will have copies available for you to complete at that time.
Important Information
All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during treatment.
If you have any medical conditions that may affect your treatment (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves or joints, rheumatic fever), or if you are taking any medications (e.g., heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulants, bisphosphonates), please notify our office in advance.
If you are someone who is nervous about dental treatment, Dr. Baker does offer an option for you to be consciously sedated during treatment using a prescribed oral medication. He is happy to discuss this option with you at the time of your evaluation appointment. Dr. Baker does not charge any additional fee for the administration of this medication or the additional monitoring of vitals during the procedure when sedated.
