Advanced Technology

Cone Beam CT

Our practice endorses state-of-the-art, small volume cone-beam CT (computed tomography) technology that provides highly accurate, 3-D radiographic images for the diagnosis, planning and treatment of endodontic disease. This allows three-dimensional visualization of teeth, bone, sinuses and surrounding structures with minimal radiation to the patient, enabling a level of anatomical accuracy and patient care not possible with 2-D technologies (regular dental x-rays). Most patients do not need a 3-D image to be able to accurately diagnose dental disease.  If you are in need of a 3-D image, be aware, 3-D radiographic images are complex and are usually read and interpreted by a dental radiology specialist.

Digital Imaging and X-Rays

Kingwood Endodontics carefully chooses which and when radiographs are taken. There are many guidelines that we follow. Radiographs allow us to see everything we cannot see with our own eyes. Radiographs enable us to detect cavities in between your teeth, determine bone level, and analyze the health of your bone. We can also examine the roots and nerves of teeth, diagnose lesions such as cysts or tumors, as well as assess damage when trauma occurs.

Dental radiographs are invaluable aids in diagnosing, treating, and maintaining dental health. Exposure time for dental radiographs is extremely minimal. Kingwood Endodontics utilizes Digital Imaging Technologies within the office. With digital imaging, exposure time is about 90 percent less when compared to traditional radiographs. Digital imaging can also help us retrieve valuable diagnostic information. We may be able to see cavities better.

Digital imaging allows us to store patient images, and enables us to quickly and easily transfer them to specialists or insurance companies.

Digital X-rays offer more precision since we view the image on a large computer monitor, instead of holding up a 35mm film up to the light. Digital X-rays results in 1/6th the radiation exposure to you.

Surgical Microscopes

The introduction of the surgical microscope has revolutionized the field of Endodontic Micro-surgery. We have invested in the very best quality surgical microscopes that provide unparalleled magnification and illumination for our surgical procedures.

Our success depends on us being able to see the minutest of details – you cannot treat what you cannot see. In addition, we will soon incorporate the latest high definition video technology allowing us to record our procedures with unequalled clarity and detail.

Ultrasonics

The advent of ultrasonics in endodontics has greatly improved both traditional root canal therapy and micro-surgical treatment. In root canal therapy, we use these instruments to remove calcifications and/or tooth structure that hides canals, remove broken instrument fragments, and remove posts.  All these improve our effectiveness in cleaning the entire root canal system and give teeth their best chance to heal.

Ultrasonic instruments have also revolutionized the way endodontic mico-surgery is done. Because of these instruments, their size, and the precise manner in which they work, we need to remove considerably less root structure in order to effectively treat the tooth. They also enable us to better prepare the root end for an effective seal by preserving tooth structure in the preparation and better cleaning the preparation for the filling. Because of the use of these instruments, we can more precisely treat your tooth, preserving tooth structure and improving your chances of success. Prior to the advent of this technology surgical success was about 50% but since the use of these instrumentsand in combination with microscope technology, it has soared to ~ 85% or higher!