If you know anything about root canals, it may seem that they’re a relatively straightforward procedure. While the practice is certainly time testing, there are significant hurdles your endodontist faces when preparing and performing them. The tooth must be properly cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to ensure the treatment is a success. There are numerous checkpoints involved in preparing for treatment. They include checking for more conservative options and a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s case. There are three areas of technology that have helped revolutionize the endodontist’s ability to discern the best approach.
The Microscope and Endodontic Microsurgery
This dental tool was introduced during the 1970s and has been a boon to endodontists and dentists ever since. It makes it possible for the endodontist to visualize the anatomy of the tooth. Combining microscope technology with dental imaging methods creates a comprehensive understanding of the condition of the tooth. This means that the endodontist will be able to identify every canal and its condition in the pursuit of a solid diagnosis. It can also reveal the presence of hairline fractures that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Cone Beam Computerized Technology
CBCT technology has risen to become the standard of care over the past two decades. The majority of endodontic practices consider this a central part of their care. It makes it possible to clearly plan numerous procedures. These can include implant treatments and surgical planning and being useful for the diagnosis of other concerns. In many cases, the use of CBCT technology completely eliminates the need to perform exploratory procedures. It can even make it unnecessary to perform endodontic surgery. It’s a valuable diagnostic tool that can prevent invasive procedures that could cause damage to healthy tissue. Combining this tool with microscope technology provides one of the most powerful and comprehensive tools available to the endodontist.
Irrigation and Fluid Delivery Systems
One common difficulty faced by endodontists is canals’ curving, twisting nature. These dental structures can have a significant amount of variance in their shape. Without a consistent shape, the endodontist can have difficulty finding and eliminating debris and disinfecting the interior of the tooth. One effective method of addressing this concern is the use of endodontic irrigation, specifically needle irrigation. These systems make the pinpoint delivery of fluid to the target site in ways impossible just years before. It can also serve to reduce accidents involving hypochlorite that occurred with previous systems. These irrigation methods have also served to reduce the chance that a canal may be missed. Without proper irrigation and disinfection, complications could arise following the root canal.
The Trifecta of Endodontic Technology
Utilizing these three technological advances in tandem has led to improved treatment methods in endodontics. They each have a central role to play in the current root canal treatment standards and contribute significantly to tooth retention. Talk to your endodontist about the equipment they use in their facility to discover if their clinic is up to date. Knowing they’re using the latest techniques can set your mind at ease about your upcoming treatment.
