In the past 10 to 20 years, there have been major innovations in the art and science of root canal treatment. Dentists now must be aware of current concepts in order to perform an optimal root canal. Root canal treatment has become more automated and can be performed faster thanks, in part, to rotary machine based technology and more advanced root canal filling methods. Many root canal procedures are done in a single dental visit, which can last about one to two hours. New techniques are available (eg cone-tomography CT) that make taking scientific measurements of root canals more efficient. However, the use of CT scans for nerve fillings must be justified. [16]
Many dentists use a dental loupe to perform root canal treatment, and there has been a consensus that root canal treatment with a loupe, or some other form of magnification (such as a surgical microscope), is more likely to be successful than one without it. Although general dentists have become familiar with this advanced technology, however, a systematic study found insufficient evidence to determine whether the use of augmentation appliances conferred more advantage or positively affected the outcome of a dental procedure.[17] They are still most likely used by physicians who specialize in root canal (known as endodontists).
Laser root canal procedures are a controversial innovation. Laser radiation may be fast, but it has not proven its ability to cleanse the entire tooth, [18] and it can also cause damage. [19]
