Learning that you need a root canal can be scary, especially when you hear terms used that you do not understand. You may be worried or scared by the pain or even plainly the procedure itself.
The truth is, there is nothing to be scared of. This is a normal procedure and as long as you have a qualified Houston endodontics office handle the procedure, then there will not be an issue.
At our office we strive to make sure that you have the most positive experience possible by using many different techniques to ensure that you are in as little pain as possible while getting the quality care you need. If you have heard an endodontist use the term ultrasonic instrumentation, then here’s what you need to know.
What Does Ultrasonic Instrumentation Mean?
This is an electric instrument that uses a file to vibrate on the root canal system. This is done using ultrasound technology which means that it oscillates at a higher frequency than you can hear, between 18,000 and 40,000 Hz. There are metal plates that are used in this which alternate between repelling and attracting so that they can create the vibration that is needed for this procedure.
Why is This Necessary?
The point of ultrasonic instrumentation is that it prepares the root canal system for the procedure. This is important because it will get rid of dead tissue and any other obstacles that seem to be in the way. This has been recognized by endodontists around the world as the most important aspect of the root canal process.
Ultrasonic instrumentation is not the only way that this is done. There are other techniques out there, including chemical preparation, though this is seen to be a more comprehensive and thorough measure for the procedure, which is why it is so widely used today.
Will it Hurt?
Since you will be under analgesic during the procedure, you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Some patients do not even know what is going on. If you are concerned about the pain of the procedure, or have more questions about ultrasonic instrumentation, talk with your endodontist.