New Technologies
Operating Microscopes:
We use special state-of-the-art Ziess operating microscopes for both conventional and surgical cases. Magnification and fiber optic illumination allow us to see tiny details inside your tooth. Also, a tiny video camera on the operating microscope can record images of your tooth to further document the doctor's findings.
Apex Locators are special sterile probes that enable the operator to measure or confirm the apex (root end) without the use of X-rays. Apex locators are usually used for pregnant patients to minimize radiation.
Ultrasonics is a method that uses diamond-coated titanium tips, which aid in the removal of posts (for re-treatment), separated instruments, and calcifications. They are also used for microsurgical root end preparations. The micro-tips vibrate at 25,000 cycles per minute. Ultrasonics is a comfortable procedure, which is some cases, replaces the high-speed drill.
Nickel-Titanium Instruments (hand and rotary) are made of a unique alloy of nickel-titanium. Research has shown that Nickel-titanium instruments are superior to other instruments in the cleaning and shaping the root canal system in combination with antibacterial solutions.
The Use of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) in Endodontics
Since we will be using MTA for retrograde fillings and/or perforation repair, we wanted to pass along this exciting new information about this advanced cement.
MTA is an advanced cement, which can be used to seal communications between the root canal system and the periodontium (iatrogenic perforations, open apices & root end preparations).
MTA is very biocompatible, capable of stimulating healing and osteogenesis. MTA differs from other materials currently in use because of its biocompatibility, antibacterial properties, marginal adaptation and sealing properties. MTA is superior compared to other materials because it is truly hydrophilic. MTA is not affected by moisture or blood contamination. In fact, MTA sets up only in the presence of moisture. The marginal adaptation and sealing ability is superior to Amalgam, IRA and Super EBA cement.
MTA is also an excellent material for pulp capping when indicated for teeth with immature apices with vital pulp exposures. MTA is preferred to calcium hydroxide because it stimulates dentin bridge formation (dentinogenesis) adjacent to the dental pulp.
MTA can also be used for immature pulpless teeth that require apical closure. MTA has been suggested as an ideal material to promote the formation of an apical barrier for a one-visit procedure as compared to the multiple visit calcium hydroxide procedure.