Endodontic 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.

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 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.

What new technologies are being used?

Operating Microscopes:

We utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth. Better vision is the key to improving the quality of the examination and the treatment.

CBCT:

In addition to digital radiography, We use a 3-dimensional X-Ray called Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). This technology aids us in better understanding and diagnosing the issues affecting your tooth. It provides a high-definition image with the marginal bone contours. It shows important anatomical structures that aid the dentist treat the canals in the tooth; it provides a lot more information for surgical procedures and in some cases the visualization of fractures in the tooth. Concern about Radiation? Don’t be! The Radiation exposure from a CBCT is equivalent to a flight from Washington DC to Los Angeles.

Laser:

Laser Dentistry is a kinder, faster, and more effective alternative to traditional endodontic therapy. Working deep into the dentinal tubules, Our Waterlase uses laser energy and a gentle spray of water that cleans and kills bacteria (up to 96%) decreasing the use of harsh chemicals and providing a more holistic approach. (See Our Technology tab under MEET US)

Gentlewave®:

The GentleWave® Technology combines energy with optimized disinfecting fluids to flush away debris and tissue from your tooth’s root canal system.

The GentleWave® Procedure replaces much of the manual instrumentation in RCT with optimized procedure fluids, helping prevent the removal of excess tooth structure to maintain its natural functionality and structural integrity. (See Our Technology tab under MEET US)