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, which 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 your general dentist via e-mail or diskette. For more information contact Schick Technologies, Inc.
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 Statim 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 along with a radiograph 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.
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What new technologies are being used?
Operating Microscopes:
In addition to digital radiography, we utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic 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 Locators
Allows us to electronically determine the actual length of a tooth and the end of the root without the use of x-rays. These devices work by calculating the resistance of tooth structure to provide a visual an audible signal.
Ultrasonics
Quartz crystal devices are used to vibrate small instruments to help clean and prepare the canals during surgical procedures. It can also aid in the removal of posts and other canal obstructions.
Nickel Titanium instrumentation & Electric Handpiece
Our special digital electric hand pieces controls high-tech Nickel Titanium instruments with great precision to facilitate the cleaning and shaping of the canals.
Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (M.T.A.)
This relatively new ceramic material is hydrophilic. It is used for pulp cappings, resorptions, perforation repairs, retrofillings during apical surgical procedures and as an apical sealer during apexifications. It is biocompatible and resistant to micro leakage.
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