Waterlase® YSGG Hydrokinetic Dental Laser
In combination with an air/water spray, this HydroKinetic YSGG laser is able to replace the drill in many instances. No longer will the whine of the drill be heard, but rather a popping sound similar to that of popcorn popping. Since there is no heat or vibration from the Waterlase, the need for anesthetic (THE SHOT) is eliminated in most cases!
Patient Information on YSGG Hydrokinetic Dental Laser
Computer Digital Radiography (CDR)
Dental x-rays can now be taken using sensors that transmit the image directly into a computer monitor. This larger image helps the patient understand the doctor’s explanations more easily and enables the doctor to “zoom in” on a specific area of the tooth. An important advantage to this new technology is that it reduces the amount of radiation by 90%. Digital x-rays are also faster. The digital image only takes 20 seconds to appear in the monitor. In addition, this new technology is friendly to the environment since no chemicals are needed for developing the image.
Surgical Microscope
In our office, we use Zeiss & Leica Surgical Microscopes. They provide enhanced visualization of the endodontic access or surgical area up to 25 times. This is especially beneficial for accurate visualization of complex anatomy cases, for locating root fractures or defects, for root-end surgery, for removal of separated instruments, and for locating canals.
Ultrasonic Instruments
These instruments utilize ultrasonic vibration to clean and prepare a root canal for filling. Ultrasonic devices are particularly useful to clean the root-end during surgery or to remove a post or other obstruction in the canal. With the use of ultrasonic instruments today, we are able to save teeth that many years ago would have had to be extracted.
Nickel Titanium Rotary Instruments
Nickel Titanium has the unique features of flexibility and shape memory. The instruments are used to clean and shape the inside of the canal. Previous stainless steel instruments had the tendency to break and could not take a curve to follow the shape of the canal, so it was difficult to clean the canal successfully. Nickel Titanium is 500 times more flexible, so even canals that are sharply curved can be thoroughly cleaned and shaped. Using these instruments routinely, allow us not only to be more effective, but also to work faster and more quietly.
Electronic Apex Locators
It is important for the success of root canal therapy to clean and fill to the very end of the root, without extending beyond or being short. The electronic apex locator aids in measuring the length of the canal by determining accurate position of the apical constriction through a resistance force.
Gutta Percha
Gutta-percha is a rubber-like material and it is the only ADA approved material to be used as a permanent filling material for root canals. We soften the gutta percha in order to mold it to fit the curve and shape of the canal. It is essential to fill and seal the canals in three dimensions to prevent future micro-leakage, which can allow bacteria to re-infect a tooth.
