F.A.Q.

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving the treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, you see the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion is 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.

No! While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontics treatment, we 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 other dental and health care providers via e-mail or diskette.

Again, there is 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.

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact his office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative 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.

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, a tiny video camera on the operating microscope can record images of your tooth to further document the doctor’s findings.

Apex Locators

We use a small electronic device called an electronic apex locator that helps us determine the appropriate length of the canal.  By using an apex locator, we take far fewer x-rays, thus reducing patient radiation.  This also reduces the time required to complete a proper root canal.

CBCT

Cone bean comuted tomography. Only required for particular cases, where three dimensional view is recommended prior to treatment. Those cases include non-surgical endodontic treatments with a complex internal anatomy, non-surgical retreatments, and surgical endodontics.