North Texas Dentistry Volume 4 Issue 1 Volume 4 Issue 1 | Page 7

Photos courtesy of Highland Park Endodontics referring dentist can feel confident that this team has the experience and technology required to provide excellent continuity of care and the highest level of advanced treatment. Endodontists routinely use sophisticated equipment that is not usually available in the general practitioner’s office. Rockwall and Highland Park Endodontics feature fully-integrated, state-of-theart endodontic equipment, such as powerful surgical microscopes that enable clinicians to identify cracks, extra canals, and other anatomical variations. Intraoral cameras allow the doctors to show patients images of the problem on a chairside computer, and then share those digital images with the referring dentist. To elevate their diagnostic power to the next level, this endodontic team has added the most advanced technology, including cone beam computer tomography, to the diagnostic process. CBCT helps identify lesions that are not visible on two-dimensional radiographs. It also allows the endodontic team to evaluate traumatic injuries, root resorption, and fractures. This powerful diagnostic tool makes it possible to preserve more teeth than was historically possible and supports the general dentist in treatment planning. In addition, they are one of the only endodontic practices in Texas to have an endoscope, which uses a microscopic camera to visualize the inside of the tooth canal. With patients as priority one, comfort is of paramount importance at Rockwall Endodontics and Highland Park Endodontics. A positive patient experience is assured by amenities like DVD players, ceiling-mounted TVs, CDs, a coffee bar, and blankets. Both offices use only state-of-the-art sterilization and infection control techniques. According to Dr. Murat Ayik, “We want both of our offices to be seen as extensions of our referring doctors’ practices, and we strive to be a helpful clinical and educational resource. Our referring doctors know that we share their values and approach to patient care, which gives them confidence that their patient will have a positive experience.” As owner of the two practices, Dr. Ayik brings the team together under one philosophical umbrella and has helped create systems to standardize the root canal process across the two locations. He is committed to helping team members be the best they can be, mentoring younger team members and collaborating on cases whenever needed to support the best patient care. “ I want people to think of endodontists as the doctors who relieve pain, because that is the reality in modern endodontics.” In a relaxing spa like setting, patient comfort is a top priority. Both offices want to be seen as extensions of the referring doctor’s practice and strive to assist patients as needed. “When patients are referred to us for symptoms related to pain, infection, or trauma, we take the time needed to thoroughly address their concerns and provide the most effective treatment, even if that means multiple visits. Having a team of specialists means we are able to accommodate every referral without delay, usually the same day.” Dr. Craig Deagle, who joined the group last summer and treats patients in the Rockwall office, travels to the Highland Park office several times a month as needed to treat emergencies. “We see any patient in pain immediately,” he notes. “For non-emergent cases, I like to schedule longer appointments to be able to get to know the patient and establish a rapport. I take time to thoroughly evaluate the patient, make a careful diagnosis, and answer questions. I explain the procedure, the potential outcomes, and the long-term prognosis to the patient so there are no surprises. Usually, patients have some anxiety about seeing an endodontist, and knowing what to expect takes much of the anxiety out of endodontic treatment. Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how painless their root canal treatment was. Our goal is for them to return to their general dentist for restoration after a relaxed, positive experience.” www.northtexasdentistry.com | NORTH TEXAS DENTISTRY 7