When your dentist mentions you’ll need a root canal, it’s likely because there are no other options outside of extracting the infected tooth. However, thanks to modern dental technology, you do have options for the root canal itself. Laser-assisted irrigation allows for a more straightforward and more pain-free root canal procedure than ever before, and it’s readily available to all of our clients at Access Endodontics.
Dr. Burton Waxman, Dr. Lina Jarboe, and the team at Access Endodontics are dedicated to providing you with high-quality, compassionate dental care utilizing the industry’s latest dental technology.
If you’re interested in learning more about laser root canals, review the following article as we address what separates laser assisted root canals from the traditional procedure. You can also give us a call at 410.304.7226 today.
What Is a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is designed to save an infected tooth from extraction. It involves the removal of the infected dental pulp, cleaning the inner tooth, and refilling the tooth with a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha.
The root canal used to be perceived as a dreaded dental procedure, but advances in both technology and technique have drastically reduced the discomfort and recovery. This is true about both the traditional and laser-assisted procedures, however choosing a laser-assisted root canal means even less pain and an even quicker recovery period.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
Keep an eye out for the following signs that you may need a root canal:
- Severe tooth pain
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold
- Swelling of the gums
- Tender gums
- Pimple-like bumps on gums
- Dark-colored gums
- Damaged teeth
- Tooth abscess
If you notice any of these signs of an infected tooth, contact your dentist today and schedule a consultation. If they determine that a root canal procedure is necessary, they’ll refer you to an endodontist.
Laser Root Canals vs. Traditional Root Canals: What’s the Difference?
What distinguishes a traditional root canal from a laser-assisted one? There are some noteworthy differences between the two when you’re weighing the options.
The traditional root canal is performed with a drill. Your endodontist uses it to create a tiny opening in your tooth, remove the infected tissue, and then clean out the inner tooth.
A laser root canal uses laser technology to efficiently disinfect the inner tooth through laser irrigation, thus more effectively cleaning out the canals. The laser allows for better cleaning, greater accuracy, and less residual damage. This means the procedure is faster, more accurate, more effective, and less painful.
Choosing a Laser-Assisted Root Canal
You may wonder if laser-assisted irrigation for your root canal procedure is right for you. Lasers are very safe, particularly in the hands of a highly-trained endodontist. Enhancements with this technology has shown that the laser root canal procedure offers favorable results over the traditional means. Below are some of the most significant advantages of choosing a laser-assisted root canal.
- A far quicker procedure
- Greater accuracy means less pain
- Faster recovery time
- An even higher success rate
Speak with your endodontist on whether laser-assisted irrigation would enhance the success rate of your root canal. They can help you make an informed decision about which option is best for you.
Laser Root Canals from Access Endodontics
Thinking about choosing laser-assisted irrigation for your root canal procedure? You want to select a dental team that you can trust. Access Endodontics, with Dr. Burton Waxman and Dr. Lina Jarboe, will gladly be your team. Call us at 410.304.7226 to schedule your appointment today at Access Endodontics.