Having treatment with GentleWave allows patients a unique root canal therapy experience. However, many patients have never heard of this method. So they want to know: is the GentleWave System or a standard root canal more effective?
Both treatment options can save a tooth from dying. However, the two approaches rely on different techniques and types of technology.
Is the GentleWave System or a Standard Root Canal More Effective?
The GentleWave system generally stands above standard root canal procedures. It was designed to improve multiple aspects of the procedure, focusing on both efficacy and patient experience. While traditional methods still prove effective, GentleWave offers a modern way to keep your smile at peak health.
Traditional root canal methods date back decades to over a century. They still work, but patients deserve a modern solution. Below, we go over key benefits that highlight why GentleWave stands at the top of the game.
High Success Rate
The last thing you want after a root canal is for the treatment to fail. While traditional fail rates are low, they still happen often enough. According to studies, the GentleWave system can exceed a 97% success rate. That means your tooth gets treated and stays treated.
You want to avoid failed root canals. For one thing, it means more discomfort and additional risk to your smile. Furthermore, it can mean paying for another treatment. Or it can lead to a more expensive procedure, like a tooth extraction.
Cleaning Efficacy
GentleWave uses unique multisonic technology for better removal of bacteria and debris. Even if miniscule amounts of bacteria remain after a root canal, they can increase the risk of failure. GentleWave effectively removes bacteria even from microscopic spaces, reducing risk of reinfection and failure.
This works because GentleWave uses broad-spectrum acoustic energy. These sound waves interact with fluid dynamics to enhance cleaning of the interior and exterior of the tooth. Debris and bacteria break down and are easily flushed out of the inner tooth.
Less Invasive
While some drilling still needs to happen, GentleWave focuses on better cleaning. Ultimately, this requires less drilling than traditional approaches. By the end, this can mean less removal of tooth material. It can also cut down on total time spent having your treatment. At the same time, GentleWave does not compromise on efficacy. It is LESS invasive while also being MORE effective.
Single-Session Care
Traditional root canals can take up to two visits in some cases. While traditional techniques may still only require a single visit, GentleWave almost always takes only one session. The increased efficacy means better work in less time. However, you may still need a second visit if you need a crown.
Improved Comfort
Local anesthetic will ensure a pain-free treatment both for traditional root canals and GentleWave. However, the bigger difference comes after. Patients treated with GentleWave should have less post-treatment soreness and discomfort. The less invasive techniques make for more comfort.
After your first GentleWave treatment, you will truly understand the difference. Any anxieties about root canal therapy should be gone. While you may still not enjoy the process, it can turn from a stress-filled day to routine dental care.
Don’t Forget Dentist Skill
No matter what system a dentist uses, a treatment’s efficacy hinges on their skill. Even a top-tier provider will perform better with a traditional root canal than an unskilled one with GentleWave. Take the time to look through your specialist’s patient reviews. See if any have reported failed root canals.
How to Choose a Root Canal Method
While GentleWave is highly effective, not all providers offer this method. When having a root canal, you generally will want to visit an endodontist. While dentists also offer root canals, an endodontist actually specialized in them.
This means they have more extensive training and tend to deliver better results. We recommend GentleWave to patients looking for:
- A shorter treatment time
- Improve chances of treatment success
- Improved comfort post-treatment
- Are Both Methods Covered By Insurance?
GentleWave treatment still can count as a root canal treatment. So, most dental insurance plans should provide notable coverage for the procedure. However, coverage types vary. So take the time to check with your GentleWave specialist to learn more about your situation.
Work with a Leading Provider of GentleWave
Dr. Maz has served LA as a leading endodontist for years and an expert in GentleWave root canal therapy. Each treatment session is built around patient comfort and optimized outcomes.