“We Use the Latest Technology for Endodontic (Root Canal) Treatment”

Digital Radiography

Dental imaging (radiographs/x-rays) has improved dramatically in the past few years. We utilize digital radiography which creates an image on the computer screen immediately and reduces your exposure to radiation 50-70% compared to conventional films. The image is displayed on a computer screen in the operatory so that procedures and treatment are easily viewed and explained. Radiographs are a necessary part of quality endodontic treatment. Drs. Barr, Spencer, and Madison are happy to explain the role they play in your care.

Operating Microscopes

The operating microscope is a high-powered optical device that is utilized in the medical field for brain and eye surgery or any application that requires distinct visualization of very small structures. Root canal treatment is a very delicate and precise procedure. The microscope allows us to illuminate and magnify the inside of your tooth so that we can see cracks, additional canals and anatomical variations necessary to provide truly optimal care. 

Ultrasonic Instrumentation

Ultrasonic instruments are a wonderful adjunct to the operating microscope. They are very small instruments that vibrate at tremendous speeds to delicately remove tooth structure during the root canal procedure.

Rotary Files

Rotary files are an adjunct to traditional hand files used to clean and shape the root canal. They are placed in a slowly rotating handpiece and are designed to remove debris from the canal depths and to optimally shape the canal to prepare it for the filling material.

Irrigants

We routinely use antimicrobial solutions when performing endodontic procedures. As research leads to the creation of new, more effective solutions, we incorporate them into our procedures. 

Materials

Calcium Hydroxide

Some teeth require the utilization of a medicated paste inside the tooth for several weeks prior to completing root canal treatment. This paste is calcium hydroxide, which acts locally and helps to create an environment inside the root canal system to facilitate completion of the treatment.

Injectable or Warm Gutta Percha

The traditional root canal filling material is known as gutta percha. This filling material may be placed in the canals in the cold solid form, or warmed to fit into anatomic variations in each canal. The warm gutta percha technique includes melting the material inside the tooth and injecting a pre-warmed gutta percha into the canals. The technique utilized depends on many factors, including canal shape and size.

Sterilization

Our office meets all standards for disinfection, sanitation and sterilization. We use disposable materials wherever possible and the latest technology in sonication, water line maintenance and autoclave sterilization for your safety and protection.  Drs. Barr, Spencer, and Madison and their staff are happy to answer any questions regarding the sterilization process.