What is endodontics?

Endodontics is one of the nine branches of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp and surrounding tissues of the tooth. The word "endodontic" comes from "endo" which means inside and "odont" means tooth. Root canal therapy is the most common endodontic procedure.

Who are endodontists?

Endodontists are dentists who received two or more years of an advanced training in the field of endodontics. We specialize, thus limiting our practice to all aspects of endodontic treatment. We perform routine as well as difficult and complex endodontic procedures. Endodontists are also experienced at finding the cause of oral and facial pain that has been difficult to diagnose.

I've heard not so pleasant things about root canals. Will it hurt?

The goal of endodontics is to relieve pain caused by pulpal inflammation and infection. In the past, the procedures were performed differently and the quality of anesthetics wasn't the best. With modern techniques and anesthetics, the majority of patients report being comfortable during the procedure. Many say that it is no different than having a filling placed.

Will it hurt after treatment?

Generally for the first few days after treatment your tooth may be sensitive or sore, depending on the severity of the infection before the procedure. In most cases, over-the-counter pain medication will alleviate the discomfort, but we may prescribe additional medications for you.

Now that the root canal is finished, what do I do then?

After your treatment is finished, a report including digital images will be sent to your general dentist. We recommend seeing your general dentist within a month or less to restore your tooth. Your dentist will decide what type of final restoration will be placed. In certain cases, we will contact you for a follow-up exam to monitor healing.

Failure to see your general dentist within an appropriate time to restore your tooth can lead to possible failure of your treated tooth. See " Retreatment, .improper healing, under the Procedures link"

I'm worried about having multiple x-rays taken. Should I be?

Because you are a 3-dimensional person, and x-rays are only 2-dimensional, we take our own x-ray(s) from different angles to allow for proper diagnosis and documentation. We also may take an additional x-ray(s) during the procedure to accomplish our goals. After treatment we take another to see the finished result as well as send a copy to your general dentist. X-ray radiation is minimal, but we take only as needed.

In our state-of-the-art office, we use an advanced non-film computerized system called digital radiography that produces radiation levels 90% lower than conventional film-based dental x-rays.

What is an operating microscope?

An operating microscope is what we use for every endodontic treatment. This modern technology allows us to magnify and illuminate with fiber optics deep into the root canals of the tooth, often visualizing the source of infection. Microfractures, extra canals, calcified and hard to find canals, as well as root anomalies can be detected with the microscope. We feel this is the most important factor in achieving the high success rate with endodontic procedures. A more appropriate term for microscope endodontic treatment is commonly called "Microendodontics" and "Microsurgery."

Our microscopes can also display, capture, and record images of your tooth (inside and outside) to further document your records. They can be relayed to your general dentist if needed to help with proper restoration of your tooth.

How modern is your office?

Lehigh Valley Endodontics is dedicated in providing the most state-of-the-art endodontic practice in the Lehigh Valley. In addition to digital radiography and the operating microscope, we incorporate the latest cleaning and shaping techniques for root canal therapy, as well as various filling materials. Additional computerized units and ultrasonic instruments aid in the thoroughness of treatment. For "Microsurgery," the most up to date techniques as well as the most biocompatible root end filling materials are reincorporated into our office.

How long can I expect to keep my treated tooth?

Root canal therapy ideally and properly treated has a success rate of 95%. You should expect to keep your tooth as long as you live. Poor hygiene as well as an improper restoration can also lead to failure of the tooth in the future.

What about infection control?

We follow the strict standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We use autoclave sterilization, barrier technique and disinfectants to eliminate any risk of infection. For root canal therapy, we utilize a rubber sheet over your tooth to prevent bacteria in saliva from invading the root canal system. This also eliminates debris from entering your mouth.