Are you struggling with deep-seated tooth pain? If so, root canal therapy from your dentist in Wahiawa, HI, Dr. Mildred Arucan-Masunaga, could be the solution! Precise and comfortable, root canal treatment removes diseased and inflamed tooth pulp, thus giving you the relief that you need and preventing any possibility of tooth extraction!

Why choose a root canal?

A root canal treatment can make your tooth stronger and healthier, prolonging its life and usefulness indefinitely. An in-office procedure from our Wahiawa practice, this two-visit service removes any dead and infected pulp from the interior chamber and up to four roots--hence the term, "root canal therapy."

Root canals help people who are afflicted with dental trauma, severe tooth decay, infection, or abscess. X-rays and oral examination reveal the overall condition of the tooth and help determine whether root canal treatment is the correct way to proceed. In general, root canals prove to be the most desired route, for this procedure staves off extraction and thus prevents the problems that tooth loss is known to cause (i.e. bone recession, slurred speech, poor biting/chewing, and more).

Signs that you might need a root canal

Here are some symptoms that point to a tooth being in trouble:

• Dental sensitivity to temperature and sugar (Heat sensitivity is usually a sign of a pulp issue, according to MedicineNet)
• Dark or oddly-colored tooth enamel
• A pimple on the gums
• Toothache pain
• Drainage
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Headache
• Swelling of the gums and jaw

Only your dentist can determine the exact nature of your problem, so, at the first signs of trouble, call Dr. Arucan-Masunaga.

How it works

First, the doctor will numb the tooth and use a rubber dam to protect it and keep it dry. Then, using specialized tools, your dentist will extract the diseased pulp contents before adding an antibiotic and sealant (called gutta-percha) in order to disinfect the area.

The final step is the installation of a temporary crown or filling. This restoration stays in place until the tooth heals, after which a permanent crown is put in place. Once this is all done, no more toothache!

Find out more

If you are starting to see some worrisome symptoms, please don't delay. Call Dr. Mildred Arucan-Maunaga for an appointment, and she'll investigate the problem. Phone her office staff at (808) 622-0001.