FAQs | Endodontist in Canton, MA

At Cobb Corner Endodontics, P.C., we understand that receiving an endodontic treatment can be unfamiliar and a little nerve-wracking. That’s why we have provided you with a list of the most frequently asked questions about endodontics in Canton, Massachusetts. By reviewing these questions and answers prior to your appointment, you can be more familiar with your treatment and feel more at ease. If you have any additional questions, and to schedule your appointment with Dr. Weinstock, we welcome you to contact us today.

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a specialty branch of dentistry that is recognized by the American Dental Association. This particular area of dentistry focuses on treating the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissue of a tooth. Every tooth has a root, but some have multiple. The pulp inside of these roots is very sensitive and contains soft tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. When a tooth’s roots are exposed and bacteria gets inside, the pulp can become severely damaged. To treat this damaged pulp, endodontists perform a variety of treatments, depending on the severity of your condition, to remove and prevent infection and inflammation. After a successful endodontic treatment, your tooth will continue to function normally.

Should I be worried about radiographs (X-rays)?

In short, no. Radiographs are necessary for endodontic treatments, but our practice uses digital X-rays, which produce up to 90 percent less radiation than traditional X-rays. Digital X-rays take images with digital sensors and send them to a computer. These images can be viewed immediately and allow our endodontist to evaluate, diagnose, and treat your mouth all in the same appointment. Digital X-rays can also be stored in your “digital chart” for easy future reference.

What about infection control?

At Cobb Corner Endodontics, P.C., we adhere to the high and rigorous standards of infection control that are advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control, and the American Dental Association. To eliminate any risk of infection, we use the autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques. Our treatment rooms are equipped with the most recent technology and materials, further eliminating the risk of infection. We carefully monitor our sterilization equipment on a daily basis to ensure that it is always 100% effective. At our practice, we always do everything possible to ensure that you remain healthy and safe during your treatments.

Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?

Endodontics focuses on alleviating pain that is caused from infected pulp. Modern anesthetic techniques and technology make it easy for most patients to report that they are comfortable during their procedures. After treatment, you may experience some sensitivity or soreness for a few days, but this is normal. For most people, over-the-counter pain medication can eliminate the pain, or our endodontist may provide you with additional medications.

What happens after treatment?

After your root canal is complete, our doctor will send a report and your X-rays to your dentist. You should contact your dentist within a few weeks to schedule a time to receive your permanent restoration. Your dentist will help determine which restoration is right for your tooth.

What new technologies are being used?

Operating Microscopes: Magnification and fiber-optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth. The advent of the microscope as part of the doctor’s regimen has revolutionized the field of endodontics. Historically, many of the failures associated with root canal therapy had been the result of inadequate visualization by the practitioner. With the use of the microscope, extra canals are more readily located fractures, perforations identified, and canals more thoroughly cleaned. In short, the microscope has paved the way for more predictable and more successful endodontic results!

Digital Radiography: At our practice, all of our radiographs are taken digitally. This allows us to view the images immediately. It also means that you are exposed to 90% less radiation than most other radiographs. All images are stored in your “digital chart” for easy access and communication with your restorative dentist.

Apex Locators: Apex locators calculate resistance of the tooth’s surface and provides a visual and audible signal that indicates the root’s length. We utilize advanced, electronic, root-length measuring technology to ensure accuracy of instrumentation.

Ultrasonics: These devices attach to and vibrate small instruments to make it easier to remove canal obstructions as well as search for any root canals that have been calcified.