At our office, we are trained and experienced in all aspects of microscopic and microsurgical endodontics. Working with Surgical Operating Microscopes enables us to perform procedures with the ultimate precision, efficiency, and confidence. Whether the treatment is performed by means of a non-surgical procedure or as a surgical endodontic one, the microscope provides superior illumination and magnification that allows maximum visualization of the root of the tooth. Any defects that can impact the treatment and prognosis of the tooth such as cracks, root fractures, calcified canals, as well as canals with challenging anatomy, will be visualized with this optical system. Additionally, because our microscopic and microsurgical endodontic procedures involve the use of smaller instruments there is less tissue trauma from treatment, resulting in shorter recovery time and better healing.
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers accurate and high quality 3-D representations of dental and facial structures. This enables us to more precisely diagnose an underlying problem, detect unforeseen defects, and minimize the need for exploratory procedures. CBCT facilitates more effective care and more consistent successful outcomes.
Clinical applications of CBCT technology in endodontics include the following:
- Detection and diagnosis of pathology at the root end of the teeth
- Pre-operative assessment of the dental surgical area and treatment planning
- Assessment and management of traumatic dental injuries
- Evaluation of root canal anatomy and complex morphology
- Detection of root fractures and root resorption
- Evaluation of previously endodontically treated teeth
- Dental implant work-up
Occasionally, dental defects or pathology that deems a tooth non-restorable will be revealed on a CBCT scan. If this happens, we will advise you that the tooth cannot be saved.
Sedation dentistry offers patients who are having anxiety anticipating an endodontic procedure the opportunity to have a stress free and more comfortable experience. Utilizing safe and controlled sedation techniques prior to the endodontic procedure, a patient is eased into a state of complete relaxation. This eliminates any discomfort, pain, and preoperative anxiety that may be associated with a particular dental visit. With some sedation dentistry methods patients may feel more at ease post-operatively as they have no memory or little recollection of the actual moment-to-moment endodontic procedure.
We are committed to creating a comfortable and caring environment for our patients. While we always use a local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the treatment area, so that you will not feel any discomfort, some patients may feel they need an additional option to reduce their anxiety and have a more relaxed experience.
For these patients we offer three options:
- Nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” is inhaled through a small mask over the nose. As the nitrous oxide begins to work, you will feel less nervous. When the procedure is coming to an end the nitrous oxide is turned off, the effects wear off very quickly.
Special Instructions: Individuals slated to have nitrous oxide are advised to eat lightly prior to a procedure. Nausea and vomiting sometimes occur with a full stomach. - Oral Sedation means that you will be given a prescription for an oral medication prior to your appointment. Taken at the recommended time before your appointment, this medication allows you to fully relax by the time your procedure begins.
Special Instructions: If you have received oral sedation, you must have an escort on the day of your procedure to drive you to and from our office. - IV Sedation with our anesthesiologist involves a sedative that is administered intravenously, or directly into a vein. It is indicated when deeper sedation is required. This type of sedation can be quickly modified to your state of consciousness and can be continued as long as necessary for the procedure.
Special Instructions: An escort will need to be present for the appointment and be able to drive you home when the appointment is completed. For morning appointments (before 1:00 pm), do not eat or drink after midnight the night before your appointment. For afternoon appointments (after 1:00 pm) with IV sedation, do not eat or drink at least 6 hours prior to your appointment.
Digital radiography utilizes computer technology and digital sensors for the acquisition, viewing, storage, and sharing of radiographic images. It offers our patients several benefits over the older traditional film based methods of taking x-rays. The most significant of these advantages is that digital radiography reduces a patient’s exposure to radiation by up to 80-90 percent from that of conventional dental x-rays. We have selected this particular system for our office as it is among the safest for providing the high resolution radiographic images that may be needed during your endodontic procedure.
