Endodontic FAQ in Greensboro
Find answers to frequently asked questions about tooth pain, root canals, and other endodontic procedures. For more information or to schedule an appointment or referral, please contact one of our conveniently located NC offices.
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What is endodontics?
I’m worried about x-rays. Should I be?
What about infection?
What happens after root canal treatment?
What new technologies are being used?
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, such as Dr. Baird, Dr. Stanley, Dr. Malueg, Dr. Horwitz, Dr. Morrow, Dr. Mohorn or Dr. Schweizer, removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, 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 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 co-therapists via e-mail or CD-ROM. For more information contact Sirona Dental Systems, 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 autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.
What happens after root canal treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment 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.
For more information, please visit the Patient Instructions portion of our website.
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.
Electronic Apex Locators:
In certain cases, electronic apex locators can minimize the number of x-rays needed to complete root canal treatment.
Ultrasonics:
Ultrasonic instruments can be valuable to remove or loosen obstructions that would otherwise prevent reliable endodontic therapy.