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 cementum and 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. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to cotherapists via e-mail, disk or flash drive. Please ask our doctors to answer any questions regarding our system.

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.

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 2-3 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.

3D IMAGING SYSTEM:

In dentistry, 3D imaging systems are radiology systems; they first capture a series of radiographs that are then computed to be displayed as the 3D image. These systems capture the radiographs (also called projections) by means of digital sensors. Because the data is already in digital form, the construction of the 3D image can begin as soon as the projection series is captured. Three-dimensional digital imaging provides highly detailed pictures that show actual representations of our patient’s anatomy that can be viewed from any direction. Using this modality, anatomical depth and relationships between individual features can be precisely identified and measured for more accurate diagnoses and treatment.

Operating Microscopes:

In addition to digital radiography, we utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and LED lighted 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 LOCATOR:

ROOT ZX is a fully automatic apex locator which provides extremely accurate measurements of the canal length in all canal conditions. It features patented technology which offers an accuracy rate of 97.5%.

The action of the meter in the large, easy-to-read display corresponds exactly to the tactile sensation of using the file. The advanced microprocessor ensures precise readings even in the presence of sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, saliva, blood or pulp. This computerized technology is used to measure the vertical dimension of the root canal space, insuring infected contents are removed.