Understanding Tooth Infections and the Need for Root Canals

A woman covering her mouth, embarassed about the state of her teeth.Root canals often get a bad reputation, thanks to their portrayal in movies and TV shows. However, this tooth-saving procedure is designed to relieve pain and restore oral health by addressing tooth infections. If you’re struggling with tooth pain or sensitivity, understanding how root canals work can help you make the right decision for your smile. At The Fort Union Dentist in Midvale, we specialize in restoring oral health with gentle, expert care, ensuring you can approach this procedure confidently.

What Causes a Tooth Infection?

Tooth infections occur when harmful bacteria reach the innermost part of the tooth, known as the pulp. This soft tissue contains nerves and blood vessels and is essential during tooth development but becomes unnecessary once the tooth matures. Infections often stem from deep cavities, cracks, or dental trauma, which allow bacteria to invade the pulp.

Signs of a tooth infection include severe tooth pain, sensitivity to temperature, gum swelling, or the appearance of a bump (abscess) on the gum near the affected tooth. If left untreated, these infections can spread, causing bone loss and other serious health issues. Seeking prompt treatment is essential to prevent further complications.

How a Root Canal Treats an Infection

A root canal is a highly effective way to eliminate the source of infection while preserving your natural tooth. The procedure is straightforward: your dentist removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans and disinfects the tooth, fills the root canals with a biocompatible material, and seals the tooth with a durable dental crown.

This process not only relieves pain but also restores the tooth’s function and prevents reinfection. Thanks to advancements in dentistry, root canals today are minimally invasive and virtually painless—similar to getting a standard filling.

Benefits of Root Canals Over Tooth Extraction

Preserving your natural tooth through a root canal offers significant long-term advantages. Keeping the tooth maintains the alignment of surrounding teeth and prevents bone loss in the jaw, which often occurs after extractions. Root canals are also less invasive and more cost-effective than procedures like implants or bridges, which are used to replace missing teeth.

Additionally, recovery time for a root canal is shorter, allowing you to return to your daily activities more quickly. By choosing a root canal, you can save your tooth, restore your smile, and avoid the complications that come with tooth loss.

Are Root Canals a Permanent Fix?

Root canals are designed to be a lasting solution. With proper oral hygiene—like regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups—a treated tooth can remain healthy for decades. Crowns placed over treated teeth are durable and protect against reinfection, though they may need replacement over time due to normal wear and tear.

Maintaining good oral habits, such as using fluoride toothpaste and limiting sugary snacks, ensures the long-term success of your root canal and overall oral health.

When to Visit The Fort Union Dentist

If you experience tooth pain, sensitivity, or signs of a tooth infection, don’t delay seeking treatment. At The Fort Union Dentist in Midvale, our experienced team provides comfortable, efficient root canal procedures tailored to your needs. We proudly serve patients in Midvale, Cottonwood Heights, Murray, and nearby communities.

Save Your Smile with a Root Canal

Tooth infections can be overwhelming, but the solution doesn’t have to be. Root canals are safe, effective, and designed to eliminate pain while preserving the function and beauty of your natural teeth. At The Fort Union Dentist, we’re here to provide expert care in a welcoming environment.

Don’t wait for a small problem to grow into a bigger one. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile!

Contact The Fort Union Dentist:

801-676-8100

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

1275 E. Fort Union Blvd Ste 200
Midvale, Utah
84047