Endodontics, or root canal therapy, has seen significant advancements over the years, transitioning from manually intensive procedures to cutting-edge techniques that offer more precision, efficiency, and comfort. At JP Romero Dental Group, these modern approaches are at the forefront of their practice, ensuring patients receive the best possible care.
In this article, we’ll explore how traditional endodontic methods compare with the state-of-the art treatments now available at JP Romero Dental Group, where the latest tools and technologies are used to achieve superior outcomes.
Traditional Endodontics: Hand Filing and Lateral Condensation
Historically, root canal therapy involved the use of hand filing to clean and shape the canal system. This process was labor-intensive, requiring dentists to manually remove infected tissue with metal files. Though effective, it was often time-consuming and less precise, with the risk of incomplete cleaning due to the manual effort involved.
For the obturation or sealing phase, lateral condensation was the standard technique. This involved inserting gutta-percha (a rubber-like material) into the cleaned canals
The traditional way of obturation called Lateral Condensation Technique. Very technique sensitive, time consuming, and would sometimes result in a questionable prognosis.
and pressing it laterally to create a tight seal. However, lateral condensation could sometimes leave voids or gaps in the sealing, increasing the chances of reinfection over time.
Modern Endodontics at JP Romero Dental Group
At JP Romero Dental Group, root canal therapy has been transformed through the adoption of modern technologies. These new methods provide more accuracy, reliability, and better patient outcomes, and are the focus of the clinic’s ongoing commitment to excellence in dental care. Dr. Charles Tolosa, a highly respected expert, recently led a seminar at JP Romero Dental Group on these advanced techniques, ensuring that their team is always on the cutting edge of dental innovation. Dr. Tolosa also offers seminars throughout the Philippines, managed by Advanced Practice and Education in Dentistry (APED), to further spread awareness and knowledge of these modern advancements.
Let’s walk through the modern steps in endodontic treatment, highlighting the difference each advancement makes.
Dr. Charles Tolosa giving a lecture for his colleagues, held in the conference room of the JP Romero Dental Group
1. Digital Periapical X-rays for Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
One of the first steps in endodontic treatment is diagnosis. Traditional X-rays provided limited, two-dimensional images that could sometimes make it difficult to fully assess the situation.
At JP Romero Dental Group, digital periapical X-rays provide high-resolution, 3D images of the tooth and surrounding structures. This technology offers a clearer, more detailed view of the root canal system, helping the dentist identify areas of infection with greater precision. Digital X-rays also reduce radiation exposure and provide immediate results, improving the speed and
Analogue (left) and digital radiograph (right). Notice the sharpness and clarity of the digital radiograph comapred to the analogue.
2. Apex Locators for Precision
In the past, determining the length of the root canal relied on tactile feedback or estimations from X-rays. This method could lead to imprecise measurements, potentially affecting the success of the treatment.
Today, JP Romero Dental Group uses modern apex locators, which accurately measure the length of the canal using electrical conductivity. This ensures that the canal is cleaned and sealed to the precise length, reducing the likelihood of complications and improving the long-term success rate.
3. Rotary Filing Instruments
In traditional endodontics, hand filing was the primary method for cleaning and shaping the canals. This could be tedious and less accurate, especially when navigating complex canal anatomy.
JP Romero Dental Group uses rotary filing instruments, which are powered by electric handpieces and made of flexible nickel-titanium material. These instruments allow for faster, more accurate cleaning and shaping of the canals, significantly reducing the time spent in the dentist’s chair and improving the consistency of the results. Rotary files can follow the natural curves of the canal, lowering the risk of instrument breakage and ensuring a thorough cleaning.
Rotary File Machine with a built-in apex locator. A 2-in-1 unit. This is the machine used in the JP Romero Dental Group
4. Ultrasonics for Enhanced Cleaning
Once the root canal is shaped, it must be cleaned of bacteria and debris. Traditional methodsoften relied on mechanical scraping, which could miss some of the more challenging-to-reach areas of the root canal.
Rotary File Machine with a built-in apex locator. A 2-in-1 unit. This is the machine used in the JP Romero Dental GroupAt JP Romero Dental Group, ultrasonic devices are used to enhance cleaning. Ultrasonics create high-frequency vibrations that break up debris and biofilm in even the tiniest crevices of the canal system. This ensures a more thorough cleaning, improving the chances of a successful root canal.
Rotary File Machine with a built-in apex locator. A 2-in-1 unit. This is the machine used in the JP Romero Dental Group
5. Laser Sterilization for Optimal Disinfection
One of the most critical steps in root canal therapy is sterilizing the canals to ensure no harmful bacteria remain. Traditional methods used chemical solutions, which, while effective, could sometimes miss certain areas.
Modern laser sterilization, used at JP Romero Dental Group, has become a game-changer in this regard. By using concentrated light energy, lasers can penetrate deep into the canal system, effectively destroying bacteria and reducing the risk of future infection. This advanced method ensures that the root canal is thoroughly disinfected, making it an essential component of the modern endodontic protocol.
The LX16 Compact laser system. It can perform various treatments, most importantly, sterilization of root canals.
6. Bioceramic MTA Sealers for Advanced Obturations
Finally, the root canal needs to be filled and sealed to prevent reinfection. In the past, lateral condensation of gutta-percha was the standard method, but this technique had its limitations, sometimes leading to incomplete sealing.
At JP Romero Dental Group, bioceramic sealers, such as Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), are now used. These sealers are bioactive, meaning they promote healing of the surrounding tissues, and they create a more reliable bond with the canal walls. MTA sealers also have excellent sealing properties, helping to prevent leaks that could lead to reinfection. The use of heated, thermoplastic gutta-percha further enhances the seal by creating a homogenous and tight filling.
Credit to Dr. Charles Tolosa and the JP Romero Dental Group
The JP Romero Dental Group is proud to offer the latest advancements in endodontics, bringing cutting-edge technology to every treatment. They owe much of their continued development in these modern techniques to Dr. Charles Tolosa, who is a leading figure in the field. Dr. Tolosa has given seminars on these advanced methods, not only at JP Romero Dental
An ‘Apical Puff’ on the apex of the root. It is done on purpose to introduce the biocermic material to the periodontium to stimulate ‘osteoconduction’ for bone regeneration. Signs of healing are observable after 1 week.
The JP Romero Dental Group is proud to offer the latest advancements in endodontics, bringing cutting-edge technology to every treatment. They owe much of their continued development in these modern techniques to Dr. Charles Tolosa, who is a leading figure in the field. Dr. Tolosa has given seminars on these advanced methods, not only at JP Romero Dental
Group but also across the Philippines, through Advanced Practice and Education in Dentistry (APED).
These seminars have been instrumental in educating and training dental professionals on the latest endodontic techniques, ensuring that the highest standards of care are available to patientsthroughout the country
Conclusion: Advanced Endodontics for Better Patient Outcomes
The shift from traditional hand filing and lateral condensation to modern techniques such as rotary instruments, ultrasonics, laser sterilization, and bioceramic sealers marks a significant improvement in root canal therapy. At JP Romero Dental Group, these advanced technologies are integrated into every procedure, ensuring patients receive the highest quality care.
With the guidance and expertise of Dr. Charles Tolosa and the continued education provided by APED, JP Romero Dental Group remains committed to staying at the forefront of dental innovation, providing patients with safer, faster, and more reliable endodontic treatments.