Tooth pain can disrupt every part of your day, especially when the discomfort intensifies or becomes persistent. If you’re experiencing sharp, throbbing, or lingering pain in one area of your mouth, you may need root canal therapy in San Antonio. At Nautical Dental, Dr. Eric Cornelius provides careful and precise root canal treatment designed to relieve pain, remove infection, and preserve your natural tooth structure whenever possible.
Root canal therapy treats infections within the pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth). These can result from untreated cavities, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or damage from trauma. Rather than extracting the tooth, root canal therapy allows Dr. Cornelius to remove the infection and seal the tooth to restore both function and comfort.
Meet Dr. Eric Cornelius
Dr. Eric Cornelius leads the dental team at Nautical Dental. He provides patients with practical, comprehensive care in a setting that values comfort and clear communication. With years of experience treating root canal infections and other dental conditions, Dr. Cornelius approaches every case precisely and is committed to helping patients understand their treatment options.
Dr. Cornelius believes in preserving natural teeth whenever possible. He uses thoughtful planning and modern techniques to ensure the root canal process remains as straightforward and comfortable as possible.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy in San Antonio removes infected pulp from inside a tooth and prevents the spread of bacteria. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or trauma.
During treatment, Dr. Cornelius will:
- Numb the tooth and surrounding area for comfort
- Access the inner chamber of the tooth
- Remove the infected pulp tissue
- Clean and shape the root canals
- Fill the space with a biocompatible material
- Seal the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling
He will often recommend placing a dental crown over the tooth to protect its structure and restore full chewing function.
Signs You Might Need Root Canal Therapy
Not all dental pain requires root canal therapy, but certain symptoms indicate a possible infection inside your tooth. Contact Nautical Dental for an evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after you remove the source
- Swelling of the gums near the painful tooth
- A visible pimple or abscess on the gums
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- A cracked or chipped tooth followed by pain or sensitivity
Addressing these issues early helps prevent further damage and supports better long-term outcomes. Dr. Cornelius will examine your tooth and take digital X-rays to confirm if root canal therapy in San Antonio is appropriate.
Common Concerns & Myths about Root Canals
Myth 1: Root Canals are Extremely Painful
Many people associate root canals with severe pain, but the truth is that the procedure is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. With modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients report little to no discomfort during the treatment. Many feel significant relief after the procedure as the source of their pain is eliminated.
Myth 2: Tooth Extraction is a Better Option
While removing a tooth may seem easier, it can lead to complications, such as misalignment of teeth, jawbone loss, and the need for implants or bridges. Root canal therapy preserves your natural tooth, maintaining its function and the health of surrounding teeth.
Myth 3: Root Canals Take Too Long to Heal
Recovery time varies by individual, but many patients return to normal activities within a few days. Following the procedure, it’s common to experience mild discomfort, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Dr. Cornelius will guide you on what to expect during your recovery.
Myth 4: If I Don’t Feel Pain, I Don’t Need a Root Canal
Infections don’t always present with noticeable pain. Some individuals may experience symptoms without significant discomfort, such as sensitivity to temperature, swelling, or tooth discoloration. Regular dental check-ups are essential for early detection and treatment of potential issues.
Why Preserve the Tooth Instead of Extracting It?
When the inside of a tooth becomes infected, some patients consider extraction instead of treatment. However, keeping your natural teeth whenever possible benefits your overall dental health. Natural teeth help maintain the alignment of your bite, support your jawbone, and allow for a full range of function when eating.
Root canal therapy preserves your natural tooth and reduces the need for additional dental work like implants or bridges. Dr. Cornelius focuses on treating the infection at the source while maintaining the integrity of your surrounding teeth and structures.
Convenient Location and Scheduling
You’ll find Nautical Dental at:
17147 Autry Pond Rd #104, San Antonio, TX 78247
They serve patients throughout the San Antonio area and offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs. If you’re in pain or believe you may need root canal therapy in San Antonio, don’t wait. Early treatment can prevent complications and get you back to enjoying life comfortably.
Root canal therapy in San Antonio, TX
Persistent dental pain can disrupt your daily life and signal a serious issue. Don’t ignore symptoms that point to an infection inside your tooth. If you need root canal therapy in San Antonio, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Eric Cornelius at Nautical Dental.
📞 Call (210) 499-0009
Explore our services and how we help patients maintain strong, healthy smiles. We also offer an in-house dental membership plan.