In the last decade, endodontic treatments have experienced a paradigm shift that has dramatically improved the quality and predictability, from diagnosis to micro-surgery.
Digital Radiography
Thanks to the new digital systems, radiography has become more accurate. Digital radiography produces quick diagnoses and strict quality control. Moreover, it is safer. Radiation exposure is 20 times lower than with conventional X-Rays.
The Apex Locator
This technique measures electronically, the precise length of every tooth canal, by identifying the very tip of the root. The quality of the root canal treatment is thus greatly improved by ensuring the complete removal of the pulp.
The Microscope
The microscope provides a precise, three-dimensional visualization of the anatomy of the tooth, which is complex and irregular.
Specific micro-instrumentation has been developed to identify parts of the root that hitherto have been unreachable using conventional methods.
With the microscope, all treatment procedures are safer and more accurate.
Ultrasonics
Generally known in the field of dentistry during cleaning and root planning, ultrasonics use has grown with the advent of the microscope. Microscopic dentistry has led to the need for more accurate and reliable instrumentation. A whole new arsenal of inserts using ultrasound have been designed and specifically created for each specific treatement : diamond coated, short, long, thin or thick.
The Engine Torque Control
The instrumentation used in endodontics has been revolutionized by the development of a new nickel-titanium alloy. These so-called "rotary" instruments must be driven by a motor torque control, to ensure their saftey. This "smart" engine prevents the risk of complications and ensures efficiency by reducing the time required for cleaning the inside of the tooth.
The Obturation Devices
Once the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, the canals must be tightly sealed. A three dimensional seal is obtained by heating the sealing material (called gutta percha). Again new devices have been developed to mold and fit the material very precisely, so the entire inner volume of the tooth is three dimensionally filled.
The Laser
"Laser" is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The photons emitted by the laser radiation will produce different outcomes on different types of tissue. A laser is able make an incision in the gum, or in a cavity in the tooth.
In dentistry, this new technology brings many advantages. Thanks to its minimally invasive nature, the laser works without contact on the skin or tooth, and is silent.
Treatments are shorter, easier, more comfortable and a lot less stressful.
