
Root Canal Therapy In Santa Monica
Root canal therapy is a restorative procedure designed to preserve a natural tooth that has been severely damaged due to infection or trauma. At Pearl Haus Dental Wellness Studio in Santa Monica, this treatment is approached through a biocompatible, minimally invasive lens. We eliminate infection while protecting the body’s systemic health, too.
Dr. Wightman integrates advanced diagnostics such as 3D CBCT imaging and salivary testing to guide precise, root-cause-focused care, prioritizing overall wellness alongside oral healing. Unlike conventional methods, our root canal therapy is metal-free, using biologically safe materials that honor your body's natural integrity and reduce toxic burden.
Why Would I Need Root Canal Therapy?
When deep decay or infection threatens a tooth, root canal therapy offers a way to retain your natural structure and avoid extraction. At Pearl Haus, the goal is not only to relieve discomfort but also to promote whole-body alignment by preserving oral function in the safest, most integrative way possible.
Ignoring an infected tooth can lead to chronic inflammation, systemic health effects, and unnecessary loss of bone or neighboring teeth. Root canal therapy, when done with precision and biocompatible methods like those used by Dr. Wightman, becomes a vital part of your wellness journey. Not just a dental procedure.

Sedation Options
We offer a range of sedation options as a part of our commitment to a calm, comfortable, and fully supported experience, because we understand that true healing happens when the nervous system feels safe.

The Role of Advanced Digital Imaging
At Pearl Haus, digital imaging transforms how we approach root canal care — allowing us to move beyond traditional two-dimensional X-rays into a full, three-dimensional understanding of your dental anatomy. With 3D CBCT imaging, we can visualize even the most complex root structures, accurately assess the extent of infection, and customize every step of your treatment with precision.
This level of clarity allows us not only to plan treatment with confidence but to monitor healing over time — evaluating bone health and ensuring long-term stability after the procedure. CBCT is also essential when evaluating teeth that have previously undergone root canal therapy, as it can reveal lingering infection or incomplete healing that may not be visible with conventional imaging.
For patients who have undergone prior root canal treatment, we offer comprehensive evaluations to assess the current health of these teeth and determine whether retreatment may support your overall oral and systemic wellness.


Did you know…
Modern root canal therapy can now be completed painlessly using digital imaging and AI-guided precision.
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The Benefits Of Root Canal Therapy
Preserves Your Natural Tooth Structure
Root canal therapy allows you to maintain the integrity of your natural tooth, supporting healthy alignment and bone density while avoiding the need for extraction or implants.
Eliminates Infection Holistically
By addressing the source of infection rather than masking symptoms, we support your body’s ability to heal without chemical overload or high-impact interventions.
Biocompatible and Metal-Free Materials
Pearl Haus exclusively uses non-toxic, mercury-free materials for restorations, minimizing health risks and supporting long-term systemic wellness.
The Root Canal Therapy Treatment Process
Advanced Diagnostic Imaging & Assessment
Before beginning any treatment, Dr. Wightman conducts high-resolution 3D CBCT scans and salivary testing to map the extent of the infection with exceptional clarity. These modern tools allow us to identify inflammation, bacterial strains, and hidden complications without relying on guesswork. Your therapy plan is then tailored to protect your health at every level, from local oral structures to your entire immune system.
Gentle Bacterial Removal and Detoxification
Once your tooth is properly numbed using minimal anesthetics and comfort-enhancing techniques, the infected tissue is carefully removed using rotary or laser-assisted instrumentation. We prioritize gentle, thorough cleansing with oxygenating or herbal rinses to detoxify the canal space. This ensures a microbiologically balanced environment before sealing, encouraging natural tissue integration and reducing systemic bacterial exposure.
Biocompatible Filling and Restoration
The cleaned canals are filled with a safe, non-metal material that harmonizes with your body’s natural defenses. Our ceramic or composite materials are selected specifically for their ability to minimize reactivity and promote long-term harmony. A final onlay or crown, crafted with aesthetic precision and biocompatible components, is placed to restore beauty, function, and peace of mind.
FaQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Root canal therapy becomes necessary when tooth decay or trauma exposes the inner pulp to infection.
Signs of infection can include:
- Toothache
- Swollen gums
- Sensitivity
- Darkened tooth
A root canal can relieve pain and preserve the structural integrity of your natural teeth, as well as prevent further complications.
Not at all! Root canal therapy actually relieves pain caused by infection. With modern techniques and local anesthesia, the procedure is no less comfortable than getting a filling. We also offer sedation options for added relaxation.
While most root canals are successful due to the intensive process we use including laser therapy and ozone therapy, there are times where the infection returns if any bacteria in the area remains. In such cases, we will perform a retreatment to ensure all infection is eliminated.
In general, a crown is the best way to protect your tooth after a root canal. However, every case is different, so based on your unique situation, your dentist may recommend an alternative restoration, like a filling, inlay, or onlay.
Most dental insurance plans provide at least partial coverage for root canal therapy. Check with your provider for specifics about your plan's benefits.



