Resolve Tooth Infection and Save Your Tooth with Root Canal Treatment

When decay or damage allows harmful bacteria to reach your tooth’s pulp chamber, it can lead to infection and, eventually, pulp necrosis (nerve death). If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing further complications. At Cotton Creek Dental, we provide expert root canal treatment for patients in and around Washington, Utah. Don’t let an infected tooth disrupt your life—schedule an appointment with Drs. David Brown and Jacob Jennings today to save your tooth and restore your smile.

How do I know my tooth is infected?

When the harmful bacteria reaches the pulp chamber, you’ll know it because it causes several unpleasant symptoms.

Some include:

  • Severe toothaches, especially when chewing or applying pressure
  • Persistent sensitivity to hot and cold drinks
  • Swollen gums or tenderness
  • A recurring pimple near the affected tooth
  • Darkening of the tooth

Root canal treatment is more successful the sooner it’s provided. An infected tooth requires prompt treatment to resolve the discomfort and prevent widespread infections.

What can I expect from root canal treatment?

Root canal therapy is the best treatment for an infected tooth because antibiotics and body immunity can do little to resolve the infection. A root canal eliminates the deep infection, saving the tooth from extraction.

A root canal is more comfortable than what many people expect. Before treatment, the dentist will numb your gums with powerful anesthetics. If a root canal makes you nervous, sedation dentistry is available upon request. Sedation dentistry makes you so deeply relaxed you probably won’t remember your procedure.

Once you are comfortable, the dentist makes a tiny access hole in your tooth, which is used to flush out the infected tissues. Then, the doctor thoroughly cleans your tooth to remove all the infection. The next step is to fill your tooth with gutta-percha, a biocompatible material. This rubber-like filling material stabilizes the tooth and protects it from future infections.

Finally, the dentist will seal the access hole with a tooth filling as you await a permanent dental crown. Your treated tooth looks natural and regains strength, allowing you to chew without pain or sensitivity. Even better, the treated tooth lasts many years with proper maintenance.

Why not extract my tooth?

Our team will extract your tooth only when it’s beyond saving with a root canal. When extractions are necessary, rest assured the procedure is seamless and painless. After removing a tooth, we recommend replacing it with a dental implant or bridge. Failing to restore the gap can negatively affect oral function, confidence, and overall appearance.

How do I prevent the need for a root canal?

Root canal treatment is effective, but prevention is preferable. Follow these tips to avoid future root canals.

  • Maintain good oral hygiene with brushing and flossing
  • Visit your dentist bi-annually for routine check-ups and cleanings
  • Eat dental-friendly foods and avoid sugary foods and drinks
  • Treat tooth decay and damage early
  • Manage teeth grinding with a customized mouthguard

Ready to treat your infected tooth?

Are you experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity? These could be signs of an infected or damaged tooth pulp. Cotton Creek Dental specializes in root canal treatment to resolve discomfort and prevent the need for dental extraction. Don’t let tooth pain disrupt your life. Call (435) 673-4605 and book your appointment with our team.