Root canals have an undeserved reputation. Most patients at Hawkins Dentistry in Marysville, Ohio, are genuinely surprised by how comfortable the procedure is — often comparable to getting a filling. Dr. Kent Hawkins and our team perform root canal therapy to relieve the severe pain caused by an infected tooth and save the natural tooth from extraction. If you are dealing with a persistent toothache, sensitivity to temperature, or swelling near a tooth, do not wait. Early treatment saves teeth and avoids more complex procedures later.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy — also called endodontic treatment — is a procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp tissue from inside the tooth. The pulp is the soft inner core of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria reach the pulp through deep decay, a crack, or trauma, infection develops and causes significant pain. Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue, disinfects the canal, and seals the tooth so it can be restored and continue to function normally.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
See Dr. Kent Hawkins promptly if you notice any of the following:
- A persistent, throbbing toothache that does not go away
- Severe sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the temperature source is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near a tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gum near the affected tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
- Pain when biting or chewing
These symptoms indicate that the pulp may be infected. The sooner you seek care, the better the outcome — and the less extensive the treatment required.
The Root Canal Process at Hawkins Dentistry
Dr. Kent Hawkins begins with a detailed exam and digital X-rays to evaluate the extent of the infection. When you are ready to proceed:
- Local anesthesia is administered to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure.
- Dr. Kent Hawkins creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
- The infected pulp is carefully removed and the root canals are cleaned and shaped.
- The canals are disinfected and filled with a biocompatible material.
- The tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.
- A custom dental crown is typically placed at a follow-up visit to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
Most root canals are completed in one or two appointments. Sedation options are available for patients who feel anxious.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction
When a tooth is severely infected, extraction is an alternative to root canal therapy — but it is rarely the preferred option. Keeping your natural tooth preserves your bite, prevents neighboring teeth from shifting, and avoids the cost and process of tooth replacement. Dental implants and bridges are excellent solutions for missing teeth, but nothing functions quite as well as a natural tooth. Dr. Kent Hawkins will always explore saving your tooth first before recommending extraction.
Recovery After Root Canal Therapy
Most patients return to their normal routine within a day or two after root canal therapy. Mild tenderness in the treated area is normal for a few days and typically responds well to over-the-counter pain relief. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent crown is placed. Once the crown is in place, the tooth is fully restored and can function like any other tooth in your mouth.
