Have Questions About Root Canals?
We Have Your Answers
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, 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.
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 cotherapists via e-mail or dvd. For more information contact XDR Technologies, Inc.
We will take every measure to ensure that your procedure is in no way uncomfortable or painful. If treatment is needed, we will inject a small amount of anesthesia to gently numb a concentrated area of your mouth. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after 2-3 hours.
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 or her 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.
- GentleWaveTM: This pioneering technology employs advanced fluid dynamics and hydroacoustics to gently flow throughout the entire root canal system, enabling treatment fluids to reach even the most hard-to-reach microscopic tunnels where bacteria can hide and be left behind.
- Computerized Digital Radiography: This is a non-film system that produces images within a few seconds on a computer monitor. Radiation exposure levels are up to 90 percent less than systems that use film.
- Cone Beam CT: Captures a 3D image of your tooth. With this technology, we can visualize any tooth from multiple angles with extreme accuracy, improving diagnosis and prognosis. 3D scans are only taken when necessary, and they provide a multitude of benefits.
- Operating Microscopes: In addition to digital radiography, we utilize surgical operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth. Also, Dr. Wiseman utilizes a digital camera, which is connected to the operating microscope. The camera is used under certain situations to photograph intra-pulpal images of your tooth to further document her findings.