Endodontics – Page 5

November 13, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Brief History Of Root Canals

Like most health-enhancing procedures, the technologies and techniques used to provide root canals have been steadily advancing, especially over the past few decades. Today’s root canal procedure is considerably easier on patients than it was in the 1980s, or even the 1990s.

Something that may surprise you, however, is that root canals have been around for well over a century. Here’s a brief list of historical milestones related to root canal procedures, to foster appreciation for how they have developed.

Important Dates In Root Canal History

1728 – Pierre Fauchard, a French physician regarded as the father of modern dentistry, authors the book “Le chirurgien dentiste,” which describes the existence of dental pulp.
1838 – American Edwin Maynard creates the first root canal instrument, which he fashions from a watch spring.
1847 – Gutta-percha is introduced as a material for filling dental canals.
1890s – Crowns are becoming increasingly popular as a dental restoration. Many require canal posts, which increases interest in endodontic treatments such as root canals.
1900 – The emerging imaging technology of X-rays is identified as an important tool for diagnosing tooth root problems.
1943 – The American Association of Endodontics is established to facilitate professional practice in this specialty.
1950s – After a half-century of controversy, research establishes that natural teeth needing root canals do not cause systemic health problems, leading to a renewed interest in endodontics.
1990s to the present – Endodontic root canal treatments receive an upgrade due to improved imaging techniques, the advent of rotary nickel-titanium files to clean canals, and use of new irrigating solutions.

“Root canals have never been a static procedure, with only ‘one right way’ to preserve a challenged natural tooth,” says Dr. Susan L. Wood of the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “Endodontists in all eras have striven to improve the experience for patients and create successful outcomes.”

October 18, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Don’t Let A Root Canal Scare You

The last several weeks in October seem to be high season for those who love all things scary, including horror movies, gory Halloween costumes and the like. But very few people seem to use the season to embrace their fears of real-world situations. If the prospect of getting a root canal has you quaking in your boots more than a trip to the store to buy your Halloween costume, let’s address several common fears about them, so you can take that dental procedure out of your personal mental category of “spooky.”

Getting Over Your Fear Of Root Canals

Fear #1: My root canal treatment will be painful.

Fact: The tools and techniques that endodontists currently use to work with patients minimize pain and maximize the chances that he or she will be able to save your natural tooth. The discomfort you might experience during a root canal is similar to what you might experience if you were having a tooth filled. For many patients, a root canal actually relieves the pain they’ve been experiencing due to an injured or infected tooth.

Fear #2: My root canal treatment will involve frightening procedures or loud noises.

Fact: One fear common to many types of dental anxiety is undergoing a treatment involving complex, unfamiliar activities or which involves loud noises. Your endodontist can explain how he or she will perform the root canal, and is able to offer an array of remedies to keep you calm and comfortable during the procedure.

Fear #3: My root canal treatment won’t last, so why bother?

Fact: Some patients hesitate to get a root canal based on the faulty belief that they’re rarely successful, and wonder if they should just move directly to getting the tooth extracted. The data on root canals show that they preserve the natural tooth 95 percent of the time, so it is definitely a procedure worth considering!

“There are a lot of situations in life that require caution and heeding one’s fears, but root canals simply aren’t one of them,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “Your endodontist can help you overcome your fears related to this important dental procedure.”

October 17, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Dr Wood Returns to Colorado for COMOM

As we prepare for the 6^th Annual Arizona Dental Mission of Mercy on December 8^th – 9^th 2017 we want to take a moment and congratulate the Colorado Mission of Mercy (COMOM) on the successful completion of their 11^th dental Mission of Mercy held October 13^th – 14^th 2017 in Pueblo Colorado. COMOM held its first event in 2007.

Prior to moving to Phoenix in 2014 to become a partner with the Phoenix Endodontic Group, Dr. Wood was Endodontic Lead for COMOM events in 2007 (Alamosa), 2008, 2010, and 2011. She played a very important role in helping to start the COMOM events. Dr Wood used this year’s event as sort of a homecoming to visit with her old teammates to see how they were continuing with the Mission of Mercy events.

Dr. Wood said “I was really fortunate to be able to sneak away from Phoenix for a couple of days and help out with the Endodontic Department at this (Pueblo) event.” She continued, “It was especially gratifying to see so many old friends still volunteering for COMOM.”

Also traveling to Pueblo with Dr. Wood was AZMOM Endodontic Lead, Dr. Bradley Gettleman, his assistant Martha Felix, and Kelli Van Horn from Dentsply Sirona.

Since moving to Arizona, Dr. Wood has volunteered at the 2014, 2015 & 2016 AZMOM events. She also helped the CADSF at Hopefest in 2016. It is volunteers like Dr. Susan Wood that help to make programs such as dental Mission of Mercy such a success in many states.

Dr. Jacqueline Allen is one of the Founding Members of the Central Arizona Dental Society Foundation (2011) and has been instrumental in helping to host and operate 5 consecutive dental Mission of Mercy events here in Arizona. 2017 will be the 6^th consecutive year for AZMOM. Dr. Allen has volunteered for Mission of Mercy events in 5 other states.

The Phoenix Endodontic Group is proud of our two endodontists that see the importance of the charitable work they do and give up so much of their time and talent to help people who need it most. Hats off to you two ladies!

October 12, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Get To Know Suzie Salas

Suzie Salas, second from the right.

As part of our Employee Spotlight series, this month we are featuring our amazing dental assistant, Suzanna Salas. At Phoenix Endodontic Group, Suzie offers extensive dental knowledge and proves herself to be a key asset to our team. Suzie provides exclusive tips and unique insight regarding Phoenix Endodontic Group.

1.) What is something that makes Phoenix Endo unique?

Phoenix Endodontic Group is involved in the community and multiple charity events to help others in need. Our team goes above and beyond to give back to the community and help dental patients in need with their pain.

2.) What would you say is your dental philosophy?

My dental philosophy is to give each dental patient the best care in a friendly and pain-free environment.

3.) What made you go into the endodontics field?

I find all aspects of specialty dentistry and oral surgery to be extremely intriguing. Not only this, my passion for helping others is fulfilled knowing that patients are leaving happier and healthier than they did when they came to our office initially. I enjoy continually educating myself on different dental techniques and Phoenix Endodontic Group provides me with the resources to grow tremendously in my profession!

4.) Where do you see Phoenix Endodontic Group going in the next five years?

In the next five years, I believe Phoenix Endodontic Group will grow in the endodontic community and looked to as a leader in the dental industry.

5.) Why do you volunteer at AZMOM?

I am extremely passionate about volunteering at AZMOM because there are many people who are unable to afford dental treatment and I can use my expertise to give them the dental care they need.

6.) How do your bilingual skills play a part in your day-to-day operations?

Being bilingual helps service patients who may not be proficient in English. Speaking Spanish allows our business to grow in different areas and become more marketable among the dental community.

7.) Describe Phoenix Endo in three words.

It is difficult to describe our office in only three words! We are highly diverse and unique in different ways. The top three words to define Phoenix Endodontic Group are friendly, caring and available.

8.) What is the number one oral health mistake every patient makes?

Oral health is vital to our overall health so it is extremely important to know proper dental care techniques. Many patients do not brush or flossing properly and thus ignore bleeding gums. If you are suffering from bleeding gums, it is of utmost importance to make an appointment with Phoenix Endodontic Group to receive proper care.

9) What piece of advice can you offer all patients?

The best advice I can offer our patients is combined in two parts. Firstly, it is vital to follow proper oral hygiene. Secondly, see your dentist on a regular basis. These two components will prevent tooth complications and costly dental work.

Our team will restore your smile and heal you of pain. To learn more about our practice, or to schedule an appointment, call (602) 748-4190, or visit our website.

September 20, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

TDO Software

From September 14^th – 16^th, 2017 the entire staff of Phoenix Endodontic Group took time off to attend the 17^th Annual TDO Users Meeting at the Paradise Point Resort in San Diego, CA. Dr Jacqueline Allen was among the first clinicians to purchase TDO (The Digital Office) and has attended every Users Meeting since 2003. Phoenix Endodontic Group uses the annual TDO Meeting to attend lectures and presentations on team building, new research and scientific advancements in the field of Endodontics as well as updates and enhancements to the software.

Dr Gary B. Carr is the founder of TDO Software – he started the company about 20 years ago and over that time has changed the way dental clinicians practice Endodontics – use of the surgical microscope as a standard of care being the most obvious. In order to start TDO, Dr Carr assembled a group of endodontists that shared his commitment to excellence in the profession. At the 2017 TDO Users Meeting in San Diego, Dr Carr was able to reassemble the original team that did the research and development for what became TDO. Included in this group of exceptional endodontists was Dr. Joseph Dovgan (Joey D). Dr. Allen purchased Dr. Dovgan’s practice in Paradise Valley, AZ in 2008, and to this day we continue Dr. Dovgan’s commitment to excellence in the field of endodontics. The meeting welcome reception was a very emotional time for Dr. Carr as he paid tribute to his colleagues, his wife Jan and his long-time dental assistant, Joy Haskins.

In a lighthearted moment, Dr Carr recalled that 17 years ago he took all of his retirement savings ($200,000) and purchased an electron microscope in order to conduct his research. He said he told Jan after the fact, and instead of being mad about it she said “It’s ok you know what you are doing.” The rest, as they say, is history.

Dr. Allen and Dr. Susan Wood are committed to continual training for staff on not only using TDO but also helping our team become stronger and more efficient. TDO’s motto is “Best in Class” – that is what the Phoenix Endodontic Group aspires to be every day.

August 24, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

3 Things You Need to Know About Phoenix Endodontic Group

In 2001, Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen founded Phoenix Endodontic Group. Our firm has grown tremendously over the past decade and a half. Our office expanded to Paradise Valley in 2008 and, in 2014, Dr. Susan L. Wood joined Phoenix Endodontic Group as a partner.

Over the last 16 years we have seen a lot of changes in the dental profession, technology and patient expectations. While flexibility is necessary when handling endodontic cases in today’s environment, it is equally important to stay true to the core values. Our core values are what brought Phoenix Endodontic Group so much success over the years.

Here are 3 important things to know about Phoenix Endodontic Group:

Patient Focused: We recognize that the needs, care and treatment of our patients are our number one priority. From her first day in private practice, Dr. Allen’s philosophy is to “treat patients the way I want to be treated.” This idea is the cornerstone of our operation at Phoenix Endodontic Group
State of the Art: At Phoenix Endodontic Group, we constantly invest in new technologies to keep ourselves on the cutting edge of endodontic therapy. Additionally, Dr. Allen and Dr. Wood spend a considerable amount of time continuing their education in the endodontic field. Both doctors believe strongly in learning and understanding the latest theories and techniques in the field of endodontics.
Best in Class Care: Our team is focused on making sure you receive the best care. From appointment scheduling, insurance billing and post treatment care we are there to serve our patients and referring offices. Our goal is to make sure that every patient is “delighted” by the service and care provided by Phoenix Endodontic Group.

At Phoenix Endodontic Group, we feel that doing all of the “little things” correctly and attention to detail are two things that separate us from other endodontic dental offices. We are proud of our successes and our team’s dedication to providing top care for our patients. These first 16 years have gone by quickly and we look forward to the next 16 years with the same philosophy and commitment to excellence!

August 10, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

What is Cone Beam Computed Tomography?

Threats to the inner pulp of your teeth can sometimes be challenging to identify and diagnose, but dental technology has come a long way in the past few years. One of the most exciting pieces of recently developed dental technology that aids endodontic specialists in their work is cone beam computed tomography, or CBCT.

Dental CBCT machines are a special type of x-ray equipment used when regular dental or facial x-rays are not sufficient. An endodontist may use this technology to produce 3-D images of teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways and bone in a single scan. During a CBCT scan, the the machine rotates around the patient, capturing images using a cone-shaped x-ray beam. The resulting images can capture what is happening in the patient’s mouth, jaw and neck, as well as in their ears, nose and throat.

The biggest advantage of CBCT dental technology is that it allows the practitioner to visualize a patient’s condition as it actually exists in their mouth, because it is able to differentiate between many types of structures and airspaces — including bone, teeth, airway, sinuses, and soft tissue. This allows for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning process. CBCT can also be used after treatment to ensure that a root canal or other procedure has adequately addressed all problems that existed prior to the intervention.

Patients need to do very little to prepare for a CBCT scan, other than to wear loose clothing and leave all jewelry at home. CBCT scans are low-dose x-ray examinations compared to a standard medical CT scan.

“We’re thrilled that we can provide CBCT scans for our patients to deliver comprehensive endodontic treatment. This is a piece of dental technology that allows us to provide better care to everyone,” says Dr. Jacqueline S. Allen, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group.

July 10, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

What is Root Resorption?

The human body is an amazing organism. It experiences a variety of physical phenomena throughout one’s lifespan in order to keep us on a proper developmental pathway. One phenomenon that is completely normal in childhood is root resorption in the primary teeth. Our “baby teeth” lose their roots, which is why they eventually fall out to make room for our adult teeth.

However, once we have all of our adult teeth, root resorption becomes an unexpected and abnormal process. In some cases of dental resorption a patient can experience pain, numbness, and discomfort, in addition to changes in the shape and size of the teeth; however, often the symptoms can be far more subtle.

Here’s a quick list of things to know about root resorption so that you and your Phoenix endodontist can ensure your natural teeth remain healthy and functional.

How to avoid root resorption problems

Understand how root resorption can happen. Some causes of dental resorption include excessive orthodontic force being used on teeth, trauma to a tooth that damages the periodontal ligament, and conditions such as bruxism (grinding one’s teeth).
Understand how root resorption is diagnosed. If root resorption is suspected, your Phoenix endodontist or another dental specialist can use radiographs, photos, x-rays, and diagnostic models to determine how far the resorption has progressed and how severely your natural tooth has been impacted.
Understand how root resorption is treated. If the resorption activity is primarily occurring on the exterior of the tooth, single-tooth orthodontic or periodontal treatments may help. However, more advanced cases that involve the tooth pulp often require your Phoenix endodontist to perform a root canal to try to save the natural tooth.

“Root resorption allows our baby teeth to make way for our adult teeth, but after that, it is considered abnormal,” says Dr. Susan L. Wood, who practices with the Phoenix Endodontic Group. “If you suspect you have this condition, make an appointment with your Phoenix endodontist as soon as possible.”

July 5, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Interview with a Dental Assistant

Meet Sarah Apostolakis. She is one of our many talented dental assistants that we have here to assist during procedures at the Phoenix Endodontic Group. Sarah has experience in periodontics, oral surgery, and general dentistry. She is a very active, outdoorsy person and is passionate about coming into work every day. She is great with caring for our patients and wanting them to get the best out of their experience here at the Phoenix Endodontic Group. She has great tips and advice for our patients about helping to improve oral health.

What do you find most rewarding about being a dental assistant?

What I find most rewarding about being a dental assistant is changing someone’s fear of going to the dentist. My goal is to give every patient the best experience I can provide and to remove their fear of coming back.

What is the biggest piece of advice you have for patients to ensure good oral health?

The best advice I can give is – floss the teeth you want to keep!

There are a lot of individuals and research that say electric toothbrushes are better. Do you agree and why?

My opinion on electric toothbrushes is they can be a good tool if used properly. I always recommend using a soft bristled head to prevent damaging the gums and tooth. The best technique is to brush in small soft circles.

How did you become interested in the dental field?

I knew I wanted to be in the dental field since I was a kid. Going to the dentist was a fun experience for me.

What advice would you give people that are afraid of or dislike dental treatment? What would you say to ease those fears?

Most people’s fear of the dentist stems from a bad experience they had or heard of. It can be difficult to relax in a situation you feel a lack of knowledge or control. That is why I think communicating with the patient is so important. I like to assure we will not start until they are ready and comfortable and talk them through the procedure so they are informed about what is going on.

What is your favorite part of working with Dr. Allen?

My favorite part of working with Dr. Allen is how relatable and compassionate she is with her patients. Dr. Allen has undergone a lot of dental work herself which has given her empathy and understanding on what it is like to be in the chair. She treats every patient how she would want to be treated.

When you are seeing patients, what is the most common problem you see with their dental health or general dental care?

The most common problem I see in dental health is gum disease. Tartar and plaque build up under the gums and in between the teeth that can only be removed properly by a hygienist. It is easy to fall out of the habit of flossing and getting your teeth cleaned twice a year with our busy lives but it’s important for your oral health to make time.

Since one’s diet is said to influence their dental health, do you have any diet recommendations?

Diet does directly influence dental health. Acidic and sugary foods are the most harmful to the teeth. I love candy and oranges and eat them all the time but I always try to rinse my mouth out after. That way I do not leave an acidic or sugary environment in my mouth which can be harmful to my teeth and gums.

Do you have a favorite dental brand or product that you use at home?

My favorite dental brand is Colgate. I have never had issues with their products, but any toothpaste with fluoride and mouthwash without alcohol will work.

Take your oral health to the next the level with Sarah’s simple tips and tricks. Giving advice and making every patient feel comfortable when they come in for a procedure is why Sarah is a prized dental assistant at the Phoenix Endodontic Group. Make sure to keep your smile bright and healthy by visiting Phoenix Endodontic Group.

June 28, 2017 By Dr. Susan Wood

Endodontists Save Teeth

When we think of tooth saving tips, we immediately think of oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) or prevention like wearing your mouthguard during sports or other physical activity. But, rarely, do we think of the choice to be made once a tooth is compromised.

The American Association of Endodontists has an array of tooth saving tips once a tooth needs intervention: “Saving a natural tooth through endodontic treatment should always be the first choice for the best health and cosmetic results. There are many advantages to saving your natural tooth: efficient chewing; normal biting force so you can continue to eat your favorite foods; maintains a natural appearance; limits the need for more costly, ongoing dental work”.

Tooth Saving Tips

If you are given a choice between root canal treatment or tooth extraction, always choose the root canal. Dentures, bridges or implants don’t look, feel, or function as well as natural teeth.
If your dentist recommends tooth extraction, ask whether root canal treatment is an option.
If your dentist says that an endodontic procedure is not an option, ask why, and request a referral to an endodontist. Endodontists specialize in saving teeth and have at least two years of advanced training in root canal procedures. They use advanced equipment to treat patients quickly and comfortably, diagnosing the condition, and relieving pain.

What to Avoid

Never choose extraction because you think it will be cheaper or less painful! When a natural tooth is extracted, it must be replaced with an artificial tooth to prevent other teeth from shifting, and to prevent future dental problems. The cost of a denture, bridge or implant, plus the extraction, is higher than the cost of an endodontic procedure that would save the tooth for years to come. Modern techniques and anesthesia make root canal treatment virtually painless. Most dental plans cover endodontic treatment.
Never choose extraction because you think it will be quicker! Endodontic treatments generally require 1-2 visits lasting less than an hour. An extraction requires one visit, but the denture, bridge or implant will require several additional visits.

Endodontists are our local superheroes that save teeth! Want to learn more about root canal treatment? Visit Phoenix Endodontic Group at www.phoenixendodontist.com.

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