Advanced Technology

Digital Imaging

Palmetto Endodontics carefully chooses which and when radiographs (x-rays) 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 analyze the health of your 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. Palmetto Endodontics utilizes Digital Imaging Technologies within the office. With digital imaging, exposure time is about 90 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.

Digital imaging allows us to store patient images and enables us to quickly and easily transfer them to specialists or insurance companies.  Our doctors also use Cone Beam CT scans as a diagnostic tool in some cases.

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Traditional dental x-rays provide a two-dimensional image of your tooth. Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) captures a three-dimensional view of teeth to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of endodontic issues. Each of our practice locations has a CBCT machine allowing our providers to utilize these 3D images for our patients in the comfort of our office.

Dr. Barrett, Dr. McEntire, Dr. Spitz and Dr. Jett prioritize patient safety and strive to incorporate digital technology to reduce radiation exposure. The CBCT gives Palmetto Endodontics this state-of-the-art technology to help diagnose potential issues more accurately and provide treatment with unprecedented confidence. The machine provides precise, crystal-clear digital images while greatly minimizing your exposure to radiation. These images are used to visualize the anatomical details of your tooth/teeth to aid in treatment planning and better identify the particulars of your specific case. We can easily share the 3D image with your referring dentist allowing us to collaborate on your care, improve your experience, and deliver a positive treatment outcome.

Surgical Microscopes

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.

Electronic Apex Locators

Electronic apex locators are high-tech machines that are used to accurately measure the length of the canals within teeth. This technology eliminates the need for multiple radiographs during a root canal procedure and saves time making treatment more efficient.

Bioceramics & MTA

Bioceramics are a newer synthetic material that was developed for use in endodontics. The material comes in different consistencies for use within the canals, in surgical procedures, and in repairing roots from trauma or introgenetic errors. MTA (mineral trioxide aggregate) was developed over 20 years ago for similar uses as bioceramics. Both materials have been shown through significant research to help save teeth, reduce infections, and promote bone growth.

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Ultrasonics

Piezoelectric ultrasonic instruments are used in many procedures in endodontics. Some procedures include removing post and core build-ups, prepping root ends during surgery, and thoroughly cleaning canals during root canals. Research has shown these instruments to be safe, effective, and reduce loss of tooth structure (compared to other techniques) in endodontic procedures.

Nickel Titanium Instruments

Nickel titanium is a strong/flexible metal developed by the US government for use in navy vessels. It was found to be an ideal metal for the fabrication of root canal files. Over the years the nickel-titanium files have become stronger and more flexible to help negotiate the small/curved canals within the roots of teeth. These instruments clean and shape the canals in preparation for the root canal filling material.