TRADITIONAL ROOT CANAL THERAPY VS THE GENTLEWAVE PROCEDURE
During root canal therapy, the infected tissues inside the tooth are removed and replaced with a dental filling material. Conventional treatment utilizes endodontic files to accomplish this. While endodontic files are effective, they often remove more tooth structure than what is necessary. Over time, this can compromise the health of the tooth, leaving it more susceptible to future damage.
Conversely, the GentleWave procedure uses Multisonic Ultracleaning® technology, which delivers fluids throughout the entire root canal system. These fluids thoroughly clean hard-to-reach areas, even microscopic portions that cannot be reached with traditional endodontic files.
WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
The success of GentleWave is backed by research. One 2016 study evaluated the healing rates for molar teeth following root canal therapy with GentleWave. The overall success rate for healing was 97.4 percent. Experts involved in the study noted that the minimally invasive technique offered by GentleWave results in far fewer post-treatment complications when compared to traditional root canal therapy.
THE GENTLEWAVE PROCEDURE
To begin your treatment, the affected tooth and surrounding area is numbed with local anesthesia. Next, your doctor creates a small access hole in the top of the problematic tooth.
Once the internal tooth structure has been accessed, your endodontist uses a sterile GentleWave instrument to clean and disinfect all surfaces. When combined with the disinfecting fluids, the multisonic technology clears away infection, bacteria, and debris all throughout the pulp chamber and canals.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, your doctor completes the procedure by placing a dental filling. This seals the tooth and reduces the risk for recontamination.
RECOVERY AFTER GENTLEWAVE
Following root canal therapy with GentleWave, patients will need to follow the same postoperative recommendations as they would after conventional treatment. Here are some basic guidelines to foster a comfortable, successful recovery:
- Take all medications as prescribed.
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
- Do not smoke. Tobacco can hinder the body’s natural healing processes.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GENTLEWAVE PROCEDURE
Are you interested in learning more about the less invasive alternative root canal treatment that offers more effectiveness, comfort, and convenience? If you are in the Marietta, GA, area, schedule an appointment at Georgia Microendodontics today. Our friendly, helpful team is standing by to answer any questions you may have about potential treatment. To learn more about GentleWave, or any of the other endodontic procedures offered at our practice, contact us online.