| Endodontic Advancements |
| David L. Vreeland, DDS, MS Practice Limited to Endodontics |
| A number of technological advancements have occurred in endodontics. Digital x-rays, using computers, are taken instead of film. This allows x-rays to be viewed in seconds instead of waiting to develop the film. The digital x-ray system I use is from Schick Technologies. It allows x-rays to be taken with up to a 90% reduction in the amount of radiation exposure. Advancements in nickel-titanium instruments have made hand and rotary instruments strong, flexible, and thin. This improvement, together with improved instrument design, enables canals to be cleaned and shaped with much less stress to the patient. Surgical microscopes have been added to the endodontists armamentarium. This allows improved visual access to the pulp chamber. Extra canals, fractures, and decay can all be more effectively identified with the microscope. The microscopes in my office have cameras attached to them so patients can view what I am seeing. These pictures can be printed or e-mailed to your general dentist. Getting anesthetized is always important and also a challenge. Periodontal ligament injections and intraosseous injections are important additions to the standard infiltration and block injections in achieving profound pulpal anesthesia. Use of the Biolase Waterlase allows the canals to be irrigated more effectively and kills bacteria throughout the root canal system. |