Patient Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or "root canal" contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.

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

No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontics treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized system, called digital radiography, that produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery. The ability to see the x-rays of your tooth immediately on a 17” viewing screen greatly enhances both the doctor and your understanding of your specific needs. These digital images can be easily archived, optimized, printed and sent to cotherapists. For more information contact Schick Technologies, Inc.

What about infection?

Again, there's no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control, and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.

What happens after treatment?

After treatment, you will be given post-operative instructions which should answer most questions you may have. When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond.

If you have been placed on antibiotics, take the tablets or liquid as directed. Antibiotics will be given to treat or prevent an infection. You should finish the prescription, even if you feel better. In the event of a rash or other unfavorable reaction, discontinue antibiotic use and call our office.

Remember, your case is individual as no two mouths are alike. Do not accept well intended advice from friends. Discuss your problem with the persons best able to effectively help you: the Doctors here at Princeton Endodontics or your family dentist.

What new technologies are being used?

This office strives to keep up with the latest proven technological advances in endodontics. We are always looking for the most innovative and beneficial technology to assure that procedures go quickly and easily with minimal discomfort.

All of our rooms are equipped with monitors and networked computers. Our treatment rooms are designed with the patient’s comfort and needs as a top priority and many of our patients tell us that they have never had such a good experience in a dental office.

Operating Microscopes:

In addition to digital radiography, we utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor 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.

Electronic Apex Locators (Root Canal Length Measuring Device):

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 the canal by determining accurately the opening in the end of the root through a resistance force. This instrument enables us to reduce the radiographic exposures needed to complete the procedure.

Ultrasonic Instruments:

These instruments utilize ultrasonic vibration to clean and prepare a root canal for filling. Ultrasonic devises 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 in previous years would have been 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 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. Routine use of these instruments allows us not only to be more effective, but also to work faster and more quietly.

Electric Handpieces:

New electric handpieces are virtually silent. This significantly reduces the anxiety of our patients. These handpieces are designed to be used exclusively with nickel titanium rotary instruments.