Patient Information
FAQ
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry, recognized by the American Dental Association, involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or "root canal" contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.
I'm worried about x-rays. Should I be?
No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontic treatment, we may use an advanced non-film computerized system, called digital radiography, that produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to your dentist via e-mail or diskette.
What about infection?
Again, there's no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.
What happens after treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your general dentist. This includes a written report, along with an X-ray, showing the completed treatment. You should contact that office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion of your procedure. Your dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond.
What new technologies are being used?
Digital Radiography:
This technology utilizes sensors that instantly transmit the radiographic image of your tooth directly onto an operatory computer monitor. This system lowers the already low dosage radiation needed to take X-rays within conventional film by over 90%. Because these images are digital, they can be enlarged and enhanced to help in the diagnosis and treatment of your tooth. These images are archived in your dental record, and can also be e-mailed to your referring doctor.
Operating Microscopes:
In addition to digital radiography, we utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth. Also, the operating microscope can record images of your tooth to further document the doctor's findings.
Apex Locators:
These are instruments that can electronically help determine where the end, or terminus, of the root is located. This is most critical in successful endodontic therapy.(will provide photos)
Ultrasonics:
Each treatment room is equipped with a dental ultrasonic unit. These devices help in locating canals, removing obstructions from canals and in cleaning canals.
Nickel-titanium instruments:
These instruments have helped to revolutionize endodontics. They have greater flexibility than the standard stainless instruments, allowing more efficient cleaning and shaping of the canals. This is accomplished by the instruments being able to follow the different curves and bends that are encountered. This will allow for more complete removal of bacteria and any debris that accumulates in canals.
Electric motors and handpieces:
These instruments are used along with the nickel-titanium files. Being electric, the motor’s speed and torque can be easily managed, resulting in more control in cleaning root canals.
