Advanced Technology

A small computer called an apex locator allows us to precisely determine the length of your root, helping ensure that the root is thoroughly cleaned from top to bottom. It can also minimize the number of x-rays needed to complete root canal treatment.

Single Tooth Anesthesia is a favorite among our patients. This machine utilizes computer-controlled local anesthesia allowing for a very comfortable way to numb your tooth without the use of traditional needles and injections. In addition, the STA allows for the numbing of the tooth we are working on without the unwanted numbing of the lip and tongue.

At Coastal Endodontics, we use Three-dimensional Cone Beam Computed Tomography (3D CBCT) imaging at each of our locations. The 3D provides additional information that traditional x-rays will not provide. These types of information are helpful in root canal procedures and wonderful for retreatments and microsurgeries. We believe that the use of 3D CBCTs should be the standard of care for these cases.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography is an exciting new technology that allows us to three-dimensionally examine teeth, their roots, and surrounding bone. CBCT imaging allows us to detect abnormalities in the teeth and surrounding structures that are not normally visible when using standard two-dimensional radiography, facilitating a more precise diagnosis and treatment, such as:

• cracks
• hidden canals
• sinus tracks
• nerve bundles

Learn more from the American Association of Endodontists and the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology about the use of cone beam computed tomography in endodontic treatment

At Coastal Endodontics, we choose carefully 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 the health of 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.

We utilize Digital Imaging Technologies within the office. With digital imaging, exposure time is about 50 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. For more information regarding exposure rates, you may contact Dexis, Inc.

The advantages of digital imaging enable us to not only store patient images but also to quickly transfer them to appropriate 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 result in 1/6th the radiation exposure to you.

The introduction of the surgical microscope has revolutionized the field of Endodontic Microsurgery. We have invested in the very best quality surgical microscopes, by Carl Zeiss, that provide unparalleled magnification and illumination for our surgical procedures.

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 the latest high definition video allowing us to record our procedures with unequaled clarity and detail.

Zeiss Microscopes

At Coastal Endodontics, we use Zeiss® Microscopes to perform all aspects of endodontic treatment. Below are just a few applications that utilize the Surgical Microscope:

• Improved lighting and magnification aid in locating additional canals.
• Improves ability to thoroughly clean prepared canals.
• Aids in retreatment of broken instruments.
• Accurate depth of retro-prep extension can be more easily assessed.
• Improves detection and evaluation of root fractures and abnormalities.
• Allows our doctors to minimize the size of the surgical site, reducing patient discomfort and healing time.
• Improves accuracy of microsurgical incisions and suturing with 6–0 through 8–0 sutures, permitting precise tissue/tissue and tissue/tooth approximation for primary would healing.
• Provides high-resolution video for patient education, enhanced training, and insurance/legal documentation.

Ultrasonic instruments can be valuable in removing or loosening obstructions that would otherwise prevent reliable endodontic therapy.

We have installed the latest technology from AtmosAir Solutions — an air purification system that disinfects air throughout the office. Leveraging bi-polar Ionization technology, this air purification system has been shown to kill 99.9% of viruses — making us the first dental office in Coastal Georgia to treat 100% of the air with this technology.

AtmosAir Solutions’ TM mission is to bring and restore every indoor environment the same clean and pure quality air that is typically found at higher mountain elevations.

AtmosAir’s unique and proven air purification process significantly reduces mold, controls the spread of bacteria and airborne viruses, and reduces airborne particles that evade normal filtration solutions. AtmosAir equipment uses non-thermal plasma technologies to generate bi-polar Ionization that attacks and breaks down odors and contaminants

Laser technology is working its way into many aspects of dental care. Coastal Endodontics‘s resident gadget lover, Dr. Lea has brought the Lightwalker Laser to our practice to improve patient care and save teeth.