Technology

Microscope

Surgical operating microscopes are used for all procedures.  Intense magnification and illumination enable Dr. Nerness to identify and disinfect hidden or otherwise inaccessible areas of the root canal system, enhancing treatment success.  An HD camera in the microscope captures key findings in your tooth.  A second set of assistant binoculars allow the assistant to see while assisting the doctor (not pictured).

Cone Beam CT

The cone beam CT (or CBCT) is a 3D radiograph that shows anatomic features that are not visible on traditional 2D radiographs.  A high resolution, limited field of view CBCT, is extremely helpful for assessment and treatment of many endodontic conditions.

Advantages are:

• Early diagnosis

• Diagnose complex problems more accurately

• Prevent potential complications

• Efficient and predictable treatment

• Increase odds of a successful outcome

Situations when CBCT imaging is most helpful:

• Complex root canal system anatomy

• Complex diagnoses

• Pre-existing complications

• Trauma

• Root resorption

• Surgical planning

• Cracked teeth

CBCT imaging uses a focused small field of view which requires a significantly smaller fraction of radiation (0.2 - 2.0%) compared to a medical head CT.

EndoVac Negative Pressure Irrigation System

The EndoVac Negative Pressure Irrigation System is a valuable supplement for disinfecting the tooth. EndoVac uses a micro-suction to safely circulate antibacterial solutions into the furthest critical areas of the root canals, which is beneficial for a successful outcome. EndoVac is the safest irrigation system because it only uses negative pressure (suction) instead of positive pressure found in other irrigation systems. 

Ultrasonics

Passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) is another important supplement for disinfecting the tooth.  PUI emits acoustic energy causing microstreaming of antibacterial solutions into otherwise inaccessible areas of the tooth, which is beneficial for a successful outcome.

Digital Radiographs

Digital radiographs are more comfortable, more efficient, and use significantly less radiation than traditional radiographs.  Images can be captured and viewed instantly with no processing time.  Dr. Nerness can then adjust contrast and magnify the image for greater detail.  Digital images can easily be shared electronically with your dentist or insurance providers to improve the efficiency of your care.  Dr. Nerness uses DEXIS Platinum Sensors which have beveled smooth corners for maximum patient comfort with a highly detailed, remarkable image quality.

Electronic Apex Locator

An electronic apex locator is a small computer that precisely measures the length of your tooth.  Accurate measurements ensure that the entire length of the tooth is disinfected, which is crucial to a successful outcome.  In the past, radiographs had to be taken to measure the tooth which took longer and required more radiographs.  The electronic apex locator is more efficient and reduces the number of radiographs needed.