Advanced Technology
Cone Beam 3D Imaging (CBCT)
Our practice uses Carestream Dental’s most advanced technology to obtain 3D imaging for our patients. The 3D scan allows us to better visualized your teeth and the surrounding structures. It can also provide additional information that may not be easily observed with conventional 2D radiographs. The 3D scan is especially useful for:
- Diagnosis
- Complex root anatomy, multi-rooted teeth
- Retreatment of failing root canals
- Cracked/fractured teeth
- Dental trauma
- Resorption
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Digital Imaging
SLO 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. SLO 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:
Digital X-rays offer more precision since we view the image on a 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.
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Surgical Microscopes
Our office is equipped with surgical microscopes that provide exceptional magnification and illumination during your dental treatment. This enables us to see fine details of your teeth not visible to the naked eye. The surgical microscope allows for improved diagnosis and root canal treatment results.
Our success depends on us being able to see the minutest of details – you cannot treat what you cannot see. In addition, we have incorporated high definition video allowing us to record our procedures with unequalled clarity and detail.
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Biolase Waterlase iplus
As an innovator in endodontic care, SLO Endodontics is proud to be among the first practices along the Central Coast to adopt the Waterlase iPlus dental laser. This laser technology uses a combination of concentrated light, air and water to treat teeth. We believe that laser-assisted endodontics is an important new innovation and have integrated lasers into all aspects of our care, including endodontic microsurgery.
The Waterlase iPlus offers a wide range of uses including:
- Debridement of root canal system – patented radial firing tips deliver laser energy in a 360-degree cone within the canal for superior disinfection during endodontic treatment
- Removal of infected or inflamed gum tissue – Waterlase iPlus can gently and effectively remove gum tissue that is inflamed or infected in areas with deep cavities
- Endodontic surgery – Waterlase iPlus can be used to cut teeth and bone in a minimally invasive manner, reducing the need for scalpels and drills
The Waterlase iPlus is incredibly versatile technology that enables us to provide superior treatment and enhanced patient comfort.
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Sedation dentistry
Our office offers a range of sedation options to help patients feel more comfortable and relaxed during their dental treatment. These options can help patients with dental anxiety, gag reflex, and difficulty getting numb.
- Nitrous Oxide Sedation: a safe gas mixture is inhaled through a small mask that fits over the patient’s nose to help make them feel more relaxed and less anxious. It is not designed to put the patient to sleep. Some patients may feel light-headed or a tingling in the arms and legs. The goal is for the patient to feel relaxed. Once the dental procedure is finished, the patient breathes pure oxygen for 3-5 minutes and is ready to go home with no side effects.
- Oral Sedation: patients will be prescribed a sedative mediation administered orally to be taken prior to their appointment. This allows for a higher level of sedation over nitrous oxide. Patients will not be able to drive to and from their appointment, and must be accompanied by a driver.
- IV Sedation: medications are administered through an IV in order to achieve a deeper level of sedation over nitrous and oral sedation. Patients will not be able to drive to and from their appointment, and must be accompanied by a driver.
If you are interested in any of these sedation options, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss them further with you.
