When a tooth is threatened by severe decay, periodontal disease, or damage 
from an injury, a skilled Arlington dentist or endodontist must make a judgment call concerning the course of treatment. If the pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal is often the only way to save the tooth.
Stephen Ratcliff DDS: 817-274-7875
During a root canal procedure (or endodontic treatment) the soft tissue in the root of the tooth is removed. This tissue contains veins, arteries and lymph vessels. Once the roots are cleaned out and widened, they are filled with a special rubber material. The root canal is only the first step in the complete tooth restoration. After the root canal, without a crown, the tooth will become dry and brittle. The final steps are the core build up and crown.
At Stephen Ratcliff DDS, we fabricate strong, natural-looking crowns that blend perfectly with the surrounding teeth. With proper oral hygiene and regular visits to a Arlington dentist, a tooth with a filled root can often function problem-free for the rest of a patient’s life.
I am Dentist Dr. Stephen Ratcliff. I have been practicing dentistry since 1981. During that time I have seen hundreds of teeth saved by this effective dental procedure. Root canal therapy at Stephen Ratcliff DDS in Arlington has a very high success rate.
Because teeth with infected pulp tissue often cause no symptoms, it is important to have regular dental examinations. I can determine which (if any) teeth have infected roots. If the infection in the soft pulp tissue is left untreated, it can progress to a point where the tooth cannot be saved. Is it time for a thorough dental exam? Call our office at 817-274-7875.
Call Stephen Ratcliff DDS immediately if one of your teeth is screaming for attention!
