Frequently Asked Questions

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 and appropriate tooth restoration (i.e., permanent filling or crown restoration), 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 use an advanced non-film computerized system, called digital radiography, that produces radiation levels up to 50-80 percent lower than those of already low doses of conventional dental x-rays. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to co-therapists via mail, e-mail or CD.

What about infection?

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, chemical disinfection, self-contained purified water with daily disinfection of water lines 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 regular dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration appointment within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your regular dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. We will contact you 3 to 12 months after treatment for a follow-up exam and digital image(s) to monitor your healing.

What new technologies are being used?

Operating Microscopes

Our office is equipped with ZEISS operating microscopes. Magnification and fiberoptic illumination are invaluable tools that assist us in performing the technical and detailed aspects of endodontic treatment.

Digital Radiography

We utilize an advanced non-film dental imaging system known as digital radiography. The already low radiation of conventional radiographs is further reduced 50-80% with this technology. Using this system, an electronic sensor produces computerized radiographs, which appear instantly on a chairside computer screen. These images can then be optimized, printed, archived indefinitely or sent to your dentist.

Ultrasonics

Our operating rooms are equipped with sophisticated ultrasonic units, which are used to remove posts and metal instruments, as well as aid in the search for calcified canals. These units are also used to prepare the root-end for a surgical filling in cases when microsurgical intervention is indicated.

Electronic Apex Locators

We utilize advanced electronic root canal-length measuring technology to insure accuracy. These instruments work by measuring and comparing resistance of tooth structure and tooth support tissue to provide a visual and audible signal to indicate precise root canal length.

Nickel-Titanium Instruments

The cleaning and shaping of the root canal system is aided by the use of metal instruments made of a unique alloy of nickel-titanium. We use both hand and rotary instruments along with a liquid antimicrobial agent to help remove bacteria and tissue debris.

Electric Handpieces

Along with these new nickel-titanium rotary instruments have come the advent of electric motor handpieces. These handpieces are virtually silent and can decrease the stress and anxiety of treatment.

Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA)

A hydrophilic ceramic material that is relatively new advancement in endodontic treatment. We use MTA for pulp capping, resorption repairs, perforation repairs, root end filling during surgical treatment, and apical plug during apexification. Current literature supports its use as a biocompatible material with excellent resistance to leakage.

Please call (520) 299-6662 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.