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Advanced Endodontics Of Virginia
(703) 858-4700
21001 Sycolin Rd Ste 320, Ashburn, VA 20147

 

Frequently Asked Questions


 

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 endodontics treatment, we use digital intraoral sensors that allow us to take X-rays using 70-80% less radiation versus conventional X-ray film. Digital x-ray technology allows us to decrease patient concerns of x-ray exposure and allows us to obtain high resolution dental images in a fraction of the time. These digital sensors combined with the Nomad Pro keep our patients at the lowest possible radiation exposure and allows our dental team to stand right next to the patient while performing an intrarol x-ray series. The technology to gain great diagnostics and the safety that one would expect from our office.

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  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 his/her 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 normal for your tooth to be tender or sensitive for several days or longer after endodontic treatment.  Your endodontist will prepare you for this with post-operative instructions and over the counter or prescription medications. If  you have any questions concerning your treatment, please feel free to contact your doctor.

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.

Nomad handheld x-ray device:

We now use the newest x-ray unit available for patient care. We have incorporated the Nomad Pro handheld device in our office to further increase the safety of dental radiographic examination in our intraoral radiography.

21001 Sycolin Rd Ste 320
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 858-4700