Advanced Technology

State-of-the-Art Advanced Technologies that Enhance the Diagnosis and Treatment of Endodontic Conditions

 

Focused Field Cone Beam CT provides a 3-dimensional view that can aid your endodontist in diagnosing conditions that are not clearly visible in traditional 2-dimensional dental x-rays. The limited portion of the jaw that this system images allows for greater acuity of the area of concern with the least radiation exposure of CT devices.

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GentleWave During the GentleWave Procedure, fluids undergo a multistage optimization process that energizes and propels fluids throughout the root canal system to remove infected tissue, debris and bacteria. The result is efficient and effective cleaning that can promote fast healing. See www.GentleWave.com for more information.  

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Digital Radiography is a form of x-ray imaging, where digital x-ray sensors are used instead of traditional photographic film. Advantages include time efficiency through bypassing chemical processing and the ability to digitally transfer and enhance images. Also, significantly less radiation can be used to produce an image of similar contrast to conventional radiography.

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Microscopes provide the best visualization and illumination of the interior of your tooth, enabling your endodontist to explore for very small or calcified root canals, removal of obstructions, and evaluation of cracks.

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Ultrasonic Technology is used in conjunction with microscope aided visualization to remove calcifications or other blockages inside the tooth that impede access to the root canals. These instruments are also used during surgical procedures to clean the root tips in a very conservative manner.

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CBCT AND THE EVIDENCE ON
ENDODONTIC TREATMENT AND OUTCOMES

Radiologic examination is an essential part of the diagnosis and management of endodontic treatments. Although intraoral radiography is currently the first choice, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) appears to be superior in managing endodontic diagnosis and complications, according to researchers publishing in the December 2014 issue of the Journal of Endodontics.

“CBCT imaging showed the tendency to more accurately identify fractured files, cast post deviations and perforations compared with radiographs,” authors reported. “These results corroborate the fact that CBCT imaging is a more accurate tool than PRs [periapical radiographs] for the assessment and management of complex endodontic problems.”

They forecasted that CBCT has the potential to become the first choice for endodontic treatment planning and assessment.