Our Advanced Technology
At Los Angeles Center For Endodontics, we strive to use the latest and most advanced technology to allow us to provide an amazing patient experience. The technology that endodontists use is just one of the main differences that you won’t find at an average dental office. Patients are often unaware of the differences between endodontists and dentists. An easy way to think about the distinctions between endodontists and dentists is by comparing them to a surgeon and a doctor. Although very similar, a surgeon is a more specialized version of a doctor. And in the same way, an endodontist is a more specialized version of a dentist.
One of the ways endodontists differ from standard dentists is their use of advanced technology. You can be sure to find these technologies in our office when you stop by for a visit.
Endodontic Microscopes
The introduction of the surgical microscope transformed the field of Endodontics. Our office has invested in the highest quality surgical microscopes, by Carl Zeiss. Our success depends on us being able to see the small details – because you cannot treat what you cannot see. With our super-specialized microscopes, you can rest assured knowing that we will be able to see every nuance of your specific situation, ensuring you receive the best treatment possible.
Before entering into any type of endodontic procedure, we recommend first reviewing our pre-operative and post-operative guidelines to make sure your experience goes as smoothly as possible.
Digital Imaging
Los Angeles Center for Endodontics carefully chooses which radiographs to take and when to take them. Because of the complexity of digital imaging, there are many guidelines and operational standards that we follow and abide by.
Los Angeles Center for Endodontics utilizes Schick Digital Imaging Technologies within the office, which limits total exposure time to about 90 percent less when compared to traditional radiographs.
Seeing What Can’t Be Seen
Radiographs allow us to see ‘beneath the surface’ and view things our eyes normally wouldn’t be able to pick up. With the power of a radiograph, we can:
- detect cavities between your teeth
- determine your current bone level
- analyze the health of your bone
- examine the roots and nerves of teeth
- diagnose lesions such as cysts or tumors
- assess damage when trauma occurs
Dental radiographs are invaluable aids in diagnosing, treating, and maintaining dental health. With the power of digital imaging, we can store patient images quickly and easily transfer them to either your general dentist, other specialists, or insurance companies. For a much more in-depth article regarding radiographs, click here.
3D Cone Beam Advanced Technology
Dental cone beam computed tomography (CT) is a special type of x-ray equipment used when regular dental or facial x-rays simply won’t get the job done efficiently. If you’re in need of a CT scan, your doctor may use this technology to produce three dimensional (3-D) images of your teeth, soft tissues, and nerve pathways in a single scan.
No Prep Work!
The cool thing about CT scans is that this procedure requires little to no special preparation. But even so, you should be precaution in certain situations, such as when you are currently or may be pregnant. For getting the best results out of your CT scan, wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave all of your jewelry at home. In some cases you may be asked to wear a gown.
Digital X-Rays
Digital X-rays offer more precision since we view the image on a computer monitor, instead of holding up a 35mm dental film to the light. In addition, digital X-rays result in 1/10th the radiation exposure so you can feel safe and secure when going under an X-Ray.
Apex Locators
An electronic apex locator is an electronic device that we use to determine the position of the apical constriction. This allows the doctor to determine the length of the root canal space. If you’re somebody who has been prescribed a root canal treatment for your current condition, then chances are you’ll be coming into contact with an apex locator fairly soon.
An apex locator can be thought of as a “GPS” for the mouth. It is a pain-free tool that we use to make sure your procedure goes smoothly and efficiently. Once your root canal is completed, be sure to follow the post-op procedures.
Endodontic Ultrasonic Advanced Technology
We also use ultrasonic instruments in many of our endodontic procedures. Endodontists use these devices to perform a variety of clinical tasks in both conventional endodontic treatments and nonsurgical treatments. Some of the treatments that require the use of ultrasonic instruments are:
Surgical uses:
- Refining access cavities
- Troughing for extra canals
- Eliminating pulp stones
- Activating intracanal irrigants
- Chasing calcified canals
Non-surgical uses:
- eliminating materials from the pulp chamber
- removing obturation materials
- exposing previously missed canals
Many ultrasonic instruments are made of steel and abrasively coated with zirconia nitride. This is because zirconia nitride is very good at resisting corrosion. It also does not flake off during use. These characteristics provide a safe and efficient way to perform delicate and precise intracanal procedures. These instruments allow our doctors to operate in the constricted spaces with limited access within the tooth structure.
Summary
With so many advanced technologies, endodontists can give specialized care that most dentists will be unable to provide. If you’re interested in some more distinctions between endodontists and dentists, feel free to check out this article here.
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Take advantage of the latest technology in dentistry – readily available for you, in our office.
