Root Canals

If you are experiencing pain or tenderness in a tooth or swelling and discoloration in your gums, you may have a cavity. Cavities develop when bacteria enter and infect the inner tissue of a tooth. When an infection spreads into the deeper parts of a tooth, a root canal is often necessary.

At Smiles on the Boulevard, we understand how painful and frustrating an infected tooth can be. That is why we are committed to providing quality, stress-free root canal treatments to all of our patients –young and old.

How Are Root Canals Done?

Dr. Hawkins may recommend a root canal if you have a severe tooth infection. This procedure is needed when an infection spreads into the root structure of a tooth. When this happens, it is important to perform a root canal as soon as possible. If left untreated, it can spread into the gums and surrounding teeth, leading to several other health concerns such as tooth loss and gum recession.

To begin, Dr. Hawkins will apply a local anesthetic to the area so you will not feel any discomfort during your procedure. After this, she will make a small incision in your tooth to access the infected tissue inside. She will carefully clean out all of the decayed material and sanitize the inside of your tooth to kill any bacteria. To finish, she will fill the space with a strong composite resin to strengthen and protect the injured tooth.

Dr. Hawkins and her team generally perform simple root canals on teeth in the anterior portions of the mouth. If you need a root canal in one of your back molars, we will refer you to a professional endodontist.

What Are the Symptoms of Cavities?

Cavities can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. Depending on how bad your infection is, symptoms may also appear in the gums and surrounding areas of your mouth. If you or a family member are experiencing any of the following symptoms, please call our office right away to schedule an appointment.

Symptoms include:

• Tooth pain
• A tooth that is sensitive to touch, heat, and cold
• Painful, swollen, or discolored gums
• A tooth abscess
• Pus in the mouth
• Swollen or tender lymph nodes below the jaw

Can A Tooth Get Reinfected After a Root Canal?

Yes. Unfortunately, a tooth can become infected again after a root canal. To keep your teeth healthy, it is important to maintain an at-home hygiene routine and visit your dentist at least two times a year. We are always happy to give our patients comprehensive steps and advice on how to keep their smiles in great shape!

If you are experiencing pain or think you may need a root canal, please call our office today at 740-423-8416.