The specialty of endodontics has been impacted by distinct technological advances, allowing the trained practitioner to become a better diagnostician and deliver a high level of patient care. Dental operating microscopes and cone-beam computed tomography are just two examples.

Irrigation is also a significant advancement as it aids in dissolving essential pulp tissues and eliminating microbes.

1. Digital Radiographs

Digital radiographs are an important tool for endodontic treatment. They allow dentists to see small fractures or other anomalies in the tooth, and CBCT technology has allowed them to diagnose difficult situations without exploratory surgery. These digital technologies save time and money and provide clearer images than traditional film.

Dental digital X-rays use electronic sensors instead of photographic X-ray film to record a series of enhanced computer images of the oral cavity. Unlike traditional X-rays, these new systems do not require a darkroom or developing area, and they produce images instantly.

Digital X-rays can be used for intraoral and extraoral imaging, panoramic and cephalometric imaging, CBCT scanning, and 3D modeling and printing. The global market is dominated by the major players, such as Carestream Health, THE YOSHIDA DENTAL MFG. CO. LTD., Air Techniques Inc., and Dentsply Sirona Inc. The key market players are focusing on technological advancements and integrating multiple imaging capabilities into single units to offer efficient and effective solutions. This is expected to support the growth of the digital X-rays market in the near future.

2. Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that allows users to experience digitally created images or videos as though they were seeing them in the real world. It can be used with headsets that display immersive digital 3D holograms or with haptic devices that allow the user to feel the virtual objects.

One example of VR is the use of the dental Simodont training device, which combines virtual reality with haptic feedback to support preclinical students in developing their skills. This equipment enables students to practice preparing a tooth pillar for a ceramic crown while being monitored by software. It also provides continuous objective feedback on their performances.

Another example of this technology is augmented reality, which combines the real world with a digital overlay. Dr Rohde believes this could be useful in dentistry because it would allow him to picture drilling protocols while looking at the live patient. It might even help with a complex case where he has to figure out the best sequence for the root canal. He says he wants to see a headset with this capability and is hopeful that it will be available soon.

3. Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach, is an effective disinfectant/antiseptic. It destroys a wide range of bacteria, viruses and fungi. It is used in industrial and domestic settings to disinfect rooms, equipment, instruments and surfaces. It is also used to bleach textiles and paper. It is also used to prevent algae growth in cooling towers and to purify water supplies.

It is also the primary chemical used to disinfect root canals. It is important to note that the full strength of sodium hypochlorite is irrigant and therefore clinicians must take extra time to thoroughly rinse and irrigate the canals. It is also necessary to ensure that the needle of the syringe does not lock in the canal, as this can lead to periradicular necrosis.

Sodium hypochlorite is produced on a large scale by the direct electrolysis of sodium chloride. It is a dangerous chemical to handle, and it decomposes violently upon heating. Its storage tanks must be constructed of materials that are resistant to corrosion, such as lined concrete or chlorobutyl rubber. It is also important to understand that the solution will react with organic tissues to form chloramines, which can cause gas poisoning and lung damage.

4. Intraoral Cameras

A high-quality intraoral camera is an inexpensive and valuable addition to your dental practice. Not only does it improve patient education, increase case acceptance, and build trust and rapport, but it also helps to document your work to help with insurance claims.

Often, it’s difficult for patients to understand why they need complex dental procedures. Intraoral cameras make it easier to see the condition of your mouth so that you and your dentist can discuss the best options for your oral health.

The camera resembles a wand and is easy to maneuver in the mouth. It has LED lighting and can zoom in to capture high-resolution images that are displayed on a chairside monitor. It can even record video footage, allowing your dentist to show you the problem and explain it in detail.

The global market for intraoral cameras is highly competitive, with manufacturers competing to develop innovative features that will help their products stand out from the crowd. The demand for wireless and portable devices is growing, as well as the ability to integrate with dental software platforms.

5. Irrigation

Irrigation is the action of applying water or a liquid to a field or other surface to facilitate plant growth. The term originates from the Latin verb “irrigare,” which means “to nourish.” While most of us are familiar with irrigation in relation to farming, it also plays an important role in dentistry & endodontics.

Irrigation technology has been around for thousands of years. Historically, it has been used to cultivate crops such as rice, wheat & barley. More recently, it has been applied to other fields such as pastures & orchards. The technology is typically a network of canals, ditches & weirs that are controlled by pumps to increase or decrease the level of water in a region.

Irrigation technology has been particularly beneficial in the treatment of root canals. Irrigation with nanobubble water (NBW) has been shown to improve the chemo-mechanical cleansing of root canals as well as enhancing tridimensional obturation. Furthermore, it was found to be more effective in removing smear layer & to preserve dentin microhardness compared with 17% EDTA.