Endodontic FAQ Jacksonville FL

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 removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment and permanent restoration, the tooth continues to perform normally.

I’m worried about X-rays. Should I be?

No. While x-rays will be necessary during your root canal 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-rays equipment. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to other dentists involved in your treatment via e-mail, CD, or DVD.

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 automated instrument cleaning and disinfection, 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.

What new technologies are being used?

Operating Microscopes:

In addition to digital radiography, engine-driven instrumentation, and the most advanced obturation techniques, we utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth. Also, in certain cases, a tiny video camera on the operating microscope can record images of your tooth to further document the doctor’s findings.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography or 3-D CBCT

The 3D-CBCT scans overcome the limitations associated with conventional two-dimensional x-ray images. It enhances endodontic diagnosis and the detection of bone pathology around teeth provides a better assessment of tooth anatomy (number of root/canals) prior to the treatment and aids non-surgical and surgical treatment plans.

Call Varella Endodontics Phone Number 904-739-2422 to make an appointment or speak to our staff.