During a root canal, the dentist will remove the infected tissue from the tooth and replace it with a filling material. This treatment can save the tooth from extraction and prevent the spread of infection to other teeth. At Seaman Family Dentistry, our dentists perform root canal therapy in Flagstaff, AZ, to help patients save their natural teeth.

Common Symptoms Root Canal Infection

• Persistent and intense pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth, is a primary symptom. The pain may extend to the jaw or ear.
• Swelling of the gums around the affected tooth, accompanied by tenderness or a pimple-like bump on the gum, is often a clear indication of infection.

• A tooth that has turned dark or discolored, especially when compared to adjacent teeth, may signify pulp damage.
• Pain or discomfort when biting or applying pressure to the affected tooth is a common symptom.

The Root Canal Procedure 

A root canal is a procedure performed to remove infected tissue from a tooth’s pulp chamber, which is the area inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Our dentist in Flagstaff, AZ, will drill a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and remove the infected tissue. Once the infection is removed, the dentist fills the chamber with a rubber-like gutta-percha material. Finally, the tooth will be sealed with a crown or filling to protect it from further damage.

After your root canal treatment, you may experience discomfort for a few days. However, this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. You should also avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully healed.

The Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Pain Relief

The most immediate and notable benefit of a root canal is pain relief. Root canals are performed to address severe toothaches caused by pulp infection or damage. Once the infected pulp is removed, the pain subsides, allowing patients to regain their comfort and quality of life.

Tooth Preservation

Root canals are often the last line of defense before tooth extraction becomes necessary. By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, the natural tooth structure is preserved, ensuring you keep your original tooth rather than opting for an artificial replacement.

Infection Control

Root canals effectively control and eliminate infection within the tooth. Left untreated, dental infections can spread to neighboring teeth or even enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic health issues.

If you are experiencing severe tooth pain or suspect you may need a root canal, visit Seaman Family Dentistry at 901 N Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86001, or call (928) 774-8512.