Endodontics Patient Information
Thank you for your interest in Advanced Endodontics, a dental practice dedicated exclusively to endodontic care.
Although many family dentists may perform root canal procedures, your dentist feels that your case requires the attention of a specialist. Endodontists are dentists who have undertaken additional training in root canal treatment and other procedures involving the pulp or the inner tissue of the tooth. They are experienced in treating complicated cases, diagnosing and relieving oral pain and treating traumatic injuries to the teeth. By referring you to a specialist, your family dentist is demonstrating a personal concern for the quality of your dental care. We hope that the information provided here answers many of your questions about endodontic treatment. If you would like additional information, please don't hesitate to contact us at 502-412-3309 or info@advanced-endo.com. We will respond promptly.
Nothing is as good as your natural tooth!
Saving your natural tooth should always be your first choice when dental care is needed. Nothing, not even the most advanced bridges and implants, can truly replace your natural tooth.
If your dentist recommends extracting your tooth, ask if it can be saved with an endodontic procedure, also known as root canal treatment. Endodontic treatment removes the injured pulp (soft inner tissue) of your tooth and fills and seals the space.
Your tooth is then restored and can function just like any other tooth for the rest of your life, ensuring comfortable chewing and a natural appearance.
Endodontists can often save the most severely injured teeth.
If your tooth cannot be saved — and some cannot — you may consider replacements such as a bridge or dental implant. Your options may depend upon the condition of surrounding teeth and bone structure.
Dental implant procedures can be complex, costly and they often require several visits and several month’s healing time before the procedure can be completed.
Do everything possible to save your teeth before considering extraction. Nothing is as good as your natural tooth!
Consultation and Treatment
Your appointment will consist of a consultation explaining your diagnosis and treatment options. Usually, endodontic treatment can be completed the same day as the consultation. Occasionally, a tooth is too infected or traumatized for treatment in a single visit, and a second appointment is scheduled when symptoms subside.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your consultation:
- Your endodontic referral slip and any X-rays if applicable
- A list of medications you are presently taking
- If you have dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any claims.
IMPORTANT: All patients under the age of 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation and treatment visit.
Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to root canal therapy (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are on any medication (i.e. heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.)
Digital Radiography (X-Rays)
A series of radiographs will be taken at the time of consultation. Advanced Endodontics uses the latest technology to capture a picture of your tooth with X-rays. Digital Radiography has decreased the time it takes to obtain a radiograph and it decreases the amount of radiation from standard films by up to 90%.If you have further questions about Digital Radiography, please feel free to ask Dr. Abbott or the Staff.
Patient Billing
For your convenience we accept Visa and MasterCard. We deliver the finest care at the most reasonable cost to our patients, therefore payment is due at the time service is rendered unless other arrangements have been made in advance. If you have questions regarding your account, please contact us at 502-412-3309. Many times, a simple telephone call will clear any misunderstandings.
Please remember you are fully responsible for all fees charged by this office regardless of your insurance coverage.
We will send you a monthly statement. Most insurance companies will respond within four to six weeks. Please call our office if your statement does not reflect your insurance payment within that time frame. Any remaining balance after your insurance has paid is your responsibility. Your prompt remittance is appreciated. We can make arrangements for a monthly payment plan but that must be done prior to the actual procedure.
Insurance Information
At Advanced Endodontics, we make every effort to provide you with the finest endodontic care and the most convenient financial options. To accomplish this we work hand in hand with you to maximize your insurance reimbursement for covered procedures. If you have any problems or questions, please ask our staff. They are well informed and up-to-date. They can be reached by phone at 502-412-3309. Please call if you have any questions or concerns regarding your initial visit. Please bring your insurance information with you to the consultation so that we can expedite reimbursement.
Scheduling
We will schedule your appointment as promptly as possible. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day.
We try our best to stay on schedule to minimize your waiting. Due to the fact that practice provides emergency services, various circumstances may lengthen the time allocated for a procedure. Emergency cases can also arise and cause delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
Please call 502-412-3309 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.
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 endodontic 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. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to other dentists via e-mail or postal service. 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?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. 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.
What new technologies are being used?
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. Dr. Abbott uses the microscope on every patient, from start to finish, to ensure optimal treatment is given.
Apex Locators: Helps Dr. Abbott quickly and accurately determine the length of your canal, minimizing your appointment time and ensuring superior quality of your root canal treatment.
Ultrasonics: Helps Dr. Abbott locate calcified canals. Instead of using a drill bit to make microcuts in the tooth, a delicate tip vibrates at ultrasonic speed and gently brushes away any obstruction to the canal.