Resolve Tooth Infection and Save Your Tooth with Root Canal Treatment

When decay or damage allows harmful bacteria to invade your tooth’s pulp chamber, it can trigger a painful infection and eventually lead to pulp necrosis (nerve death). If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone, gums, sinuses, and even neighboring teeth, causing serious complications. At Cotton Creek Dental, we offer expert root canal therapy for patients in Washington, Utah, and surrounding areas. Don’t let an infected tooth disrupt your life — schedule an appointment with Drs. David Brown and Jacob Jennings today to eliminate the infection, relieve your pain, save your teeth, and restore your healthy smile.

How Do You Know If Your Tooth Is Infected?

In some cases, a tooth infection can go unnoticed until your dentist discovers it during a routine exam. However, many patients experience warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. If harmful bacteria have reached your tooth’s pulp, you might notice symptoms like:

  • Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
  • Swollen, tender, or inflamed gums
  • A recurring pimple or abscess on the gums near the affected tooth
  • Darkening or discoloration of the tooth

Prompt treatment is essential to prevent the infection from worsening. The sooner a root canal is performed, the greater the chance of preserving your natural tooth and avoiding more invasive procedures.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms — or if you simply want peace of mind — contact Cotton Creek Dental right away. We’ll assess your condition, walk you through your treatment options, and help you get back to living life pain-free.

What can I expect from root canal treatment?

Root canal therapy is often the most effective solution for an infected tooth, as antibiotics and your body’s immune system can’t fully eliminate an infection deep within the tooth. A root canal removes the source of the infection, preserving your natural tooth and preventing the need for extraction.

Despite its reputation, a root canal is typically safer and more comfortable than many people expect. Before starting the procedure, your dentist will thoroughly numb the area with a local anesthetic. If you feel anxious about the treatment, sedation dentistry is available to help you relax. Sedation creates a deeply calming state — many patients feel so at ease they barely remember the procedure.

Once you’re comfortable, the dentist will create a small access hole in your tooth to carefully remove the infected tissue and bacteria. After thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the tooth, the space is filled with gutta-percha, a durable, biocompatible material that stabilizes the tooth and helps prevent future infections.

To complete the process, the dentist designs and fabricates a custom dental crown the same day. The crown restores the tooth’s natural appearance and strength, allowing you to chew and smile confidently without pain or sensitivity. Best of all, with good oral hygiene and regular dental care, your treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Why not extract my tooth?

Our team will recommend extracting 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 will help you decide what the best option for replacing it will be.

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 excessively hard or highly processed foods
  • Treat any tooth decay and damage early
  • Manage teeth grinding with a customized, office-fabricated 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.