Better Root Canals with Microscope Endodontics
Root canals are one of the most commonly performed procedures in dentistry. Root canal or endodontic therapy is the removal of an infected or dead pulp in the center of the tooth. When the pulp is infected it needs to be treated to prevent the spread of infection and the destruction of healthy bones and tissues.
If you’ve ever had a root canal, you know that the doctor removes tooth decay, cleans the space (along with the root canals) and seals it off. If the tooth is a molar or premolar (located in the back of the mouth), it is usually secured with a dental crown to brace the remaining tooth.
Greater Accuracy and Precision
Many dentists use manual instruments to clean the root canal in the tooth root and the space that houses the dental pulp. In most cases, the special instruments are enough to clean the passages inside the tooth. Occasionally, however, the tooth may not heal after treatment because the canals were too narrow or difficult to access. Some canals may also be undetected.
Technology
For greater accuracy and to reduce the chances of re-treatment, your Westwood Dental Smiles endodontist Nadia Tabachnik uses microscope-assisted endodontic techniques. A microscope not only increases magnification, it also lights up the branching passages in the tooth, allowing Dr. Tabachnik to see structures not visible to the naked eye.
Other advantages of microscope endodontics:
- Ability to use smaller instruments
- Less trauma to soft tissues and better healing
- Accuracy of incisions
If Dr. Tabachnik finds that the canals are very narrow or blocked, she may recommend endodontic surgery. The most common type of endodontic surgery is root-end resection or apicoectomy. During treatment, your endodontist uses a microscope while making small incisions in the gums near the tooth. This is done to remove infected tissue and the tip of the tooth root. The tip is then sealed and the area is stitched closed. After surgery, a dental crown might be suggested depending on the condition of your tooth.
Your endodontist is a specialist in conventional and microscope-assisted root canal treatment, retreatment and endodontic surgery. To make an appointment, please call or use our convenient online form.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of this procedure, call 310-208-4084 or use our online form to make an appointment.