Root Canal Therapy
Extreme dental pain is often indicative of the nerve of a tooth dying. Root canal therapy alleviates this pain by removing the nerve and still keeping the tooth for chewing and smiling. A common misconception is that the root of the tooth is removed. The root and tooth remain intact, while the nerve and source of pain located in the center of the tooth are removed and filled. It is usually recommended to put a crown (or cap) on a root canal tooth as the tooth often becomes brittle after the nerve is removed. Dr. Baxter completed his residency at Queen's Medical Center where he received guidance in root canal therapy from some of the best endodontists in Honolulu.
Root Canal Treatment
Hearing the words “root canal” can sound intimidating—but modern treatment is gentle, effective, and can actually relieve pain. At Kahului Dental, we provide comfortable root canal therapy to save damaged teeth and restore your smile.
🦷 What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure that treats infection or inflammation inside the tooth. Instead of removing the tooth, we carefully clean out the infected tissue, disinfect the root canals, and seal the tooth to prevent further problems.
⚠️ When Do You Need a Root Canal?
You may need treatment if you have:
Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or biting
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
Swelling or tenderness in the gums
Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
A dental abscess (pimple-like bump on the gums)
👩⚕️ What to Expect During Treatment
Comfort First – We numb the area so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
Cleaning & Shaping – The infected tissue inside the tooth is removed.
Sealing – The canals are filled and sealed to keep bacteria out.
Restoration – Most root canal-treated teeth are restored with a dental crown for strength and protection.
🌟 Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Saves your natural tooth
Relieves pain and discomfort
Prevents the spread of infection
Restores normal chewing and biting
Long-lasting solution when paired with a crown
🗓️ Aftercare
Some tenderness is normal for a few days, but most patients return to normal activities quickly. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually all that’s needed, and we’ll provide clear instructions for care.
👉 Tooth pain isn’t normal.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait—call or text Kahului Dental today. Root canal treatment can save your tooth and stop the pain for good.