What is Microscopic Endodontics?

WHAT IS MICROSCOPIC ENDODONTICS? Microdentistry is the modern approach in dentistry utilizing high-powered optical devices that give a magnified view of the operative field. It helps in treating the supportive tissues and other oral structures with high degree of precision. As the magnifying lenses give a clear view (say 25 times) more than the naked eye, dentists incorporate operating microscopes in diagnosis and treatment.

The practice of using microscopes in endodontic treatments (Root Canal Treatment) is increasing because those optical devices give a clear picture of canals and cracks inside a tooth.

Why do dentists recommend Root Canal Therapy (RCT)?

Dentists prescribe Root Canal Treatment when the cavities in a tooth progresses and reach the soft center of the pulp chamber. Such internally decayed tooth cannot be repaired with regular cavity treatments because the blood vessels and tissues inside the pulp are also damaged.

Hence dentists extract the damaged pulp chamber to clean the infection and restore it with an organic substance called gutta percha. Then the treated tooth is sealed so no more microbes can enter the tooth.

If such infection in a deeply decayed tooth is left uncontrolled, it will spread to other places in the face. Likewise, it can cause heart diseases, brain disorders also.

What are the benefits of using the microscope in Root Canal Treatment?

The association of microdentistry in Root Canal Therapy has ensured the success rate of this procedure. It is because unwanted hand movements during this surgical procedure will lead to more complicated aftereffects whilst such hand tremors are inevitable at times.

Hence the application of the technological advancements will lower such side effects.

Similarly, the magnified view ensures improved visualization to detect infections in the tiniest canals inside a tooth.

The other advantages of microscopic endodontics include:  The calcified canals of a tooth are hard to notice. So the bacterial infections inside the canal cannot be detected unless we use advanced accessories. With the help of microscope, diagnosing infections in such tiny canals has become quite easy.  In microscopic RCT, the chances are less for removing healthy tooth structures to make an access point.  Besides bacterial infections, blocked canals, the bright & illuminated view provided with magnifying lenses are helpful in detecting fractured instruments lodged inside a tooth carelessly.

In simply, using microscope in endodontic treatments provide a detailed view to detect abnormalities like root dilaceration, mild root bifurcations, locating fractures as well as cleaning canals, handling vital tissues and other issues that are considered difficult in traditional methods.

The evolution in technology has brought many RCT alternatives to treat deeply infected teeth whereas the introduction of microscope in RCT has made it a detailed micro dentistry and ensure high success rates.

Dr. B. Kanagasabapathy MDS