Endodontic FAQ's

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.

This is the most common question that we get asked.  We are confident in our ability to provide pain free root canals.  It is a serious topic for us, because it's a serious topic for you.  In most cases, even the injection itself should be a pain free experience.  Providing treatment under profound anesthesia is important to Dr. Boss because if your not comfortable, he's not comfortable.  There are horror stories that exist regarding pain associated with root canal treatments and Dr. Boss prides himself in demonstrating that these types of scenarios don't need to happen.  A pain free root canal is possible and you should expect it.

One of the things that Dr. Boss enjoys most about his profession is alleviating pain or toothaches.  For many people, the root canal services that he provides are a relieving and palliative experience.  They come to him because they are in pain and look forward to the liberating pain free solutions that he can offer.

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 80 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to referring doctors via e-mail.

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.

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your referring dentist. You should contact your referring dentists 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.