Root Canal Therapy in Tacoma, WA

A root canal is a restorative procedure that repairs a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected due to decay, disease, or injury. At My Tacoma Dentist - David Wagner DDS, the process involves removing the damaged portion of the tooth and then filling and sealing it to prevent further damage and restore full function to the tooth. This treatment has a very high success rate and will restore the tooth for many years.

The soft tissue inside the tooth is removed during a root canal, and the inside is carefully cleaned and disinfected. The dentist will then fill the tooth with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, a crown is placed over the tooth to provide extra strength and support. This helps to protect the tooth from further damage and restores it to optimal health.

What Are the Signs That You Need a Root Canal?

A dentist may recommend endodontic treatment for a cavity that has reached the pulp or for a tooth that has been injured and is at risk of losing a significant amount of its structure. When a cavity reaches the innermost layers of the tooth, it can cause pain that can become severe as the bacteria eat away at your tooth’s inner tissue. You may also experience tooth sensitivity and increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures due to a dying nerve. In some cases, you may notice a dark spot on your teeth near the gum line as a sign that the bacterial infection has reached the nerve of your tooth. These signs may mean that a root canal is necessary to save your tooth from further damage and prevent the need for a tooth extraction.

The Benefits of Getting a Root Canal

Saving your natural tooth is the best option. A root canal procedure allows you to preserve your original tooth rather than having it extracted, which can cause other teeth to shift and fill in a new gap. Keeping your original tooth is essential to maintain proper chewing and speaking function. By saving the tooth from extraction, you are also protecting your oral health and preventing the surrounding natural teeth from shifting into the space left by the absent tooth. Shifting of surrounding teeth can lead to misalignments and crookedness of your smile. Root canal procedures can also prevent further infection of the tooth and surrounding tissues, eventually leading to more widespread health issues if left untreated. 

Visit My Tacoma Dentist - David Wagner DDS, at 1919 N. Pearl St. Suite A-3, Tacoma, WA, 98406, or call (253) 761-5299 for more information on the benefits of root canal treatments.