PATIENT INFORMATION

Introduction

We treat every patient as if they are family. We have a private practice limited to endodontics in Seal Beach, California. Our office has incorporated state of the art endodontics technology, including a computerized imaging system that utilizes an electronic sensor instead of X-ray film. These sensors produce sharp and clear images that appear almost instantly on a computer screen and use up to 90% less radiation than conventional X-rays. All endodontic treatment is performed strictly under the surgical operating microscope, which also allows us to treat even the most complex cases.

We pride ourselves in creating a safe, informative environment where patients can feel free to discuss any questions or concerns as well as express any anxiety. Each patient receives a pre-treatment examination and consultation, which includes diagnosis, patient education, and explanation of their insurance benefits (if applicable). In cases where the consultation can lead to a treatment in the same visit, we will offer it for the convenience of the patient. We also offer routine follow-up care and examinations up to six months after the treatment for the patient’s benefit and ease. We are committed to the protection and safety of all of our patients. All the office personnel have been trained and strictly adhere to all OSHA guidelines for sterilization, and follow the standards of Universal Precautions.

We’re gentle, efficient and caring. We know that the last place most patients want to be is sitting in a chair undergoing a root canal. Still, if a root canal treatment is needed, you’ll find the most gentle and considerate care possible at Soft Touch Endodontics. Our doctors are sensitive to your needs and concerns every step of the way. 99% of patients are able to have their root canal performed in one visit. This element of care is essential to overall satisfaction and contributes greatly to a willingness to proceed with treatment. Also, patients express great satisfaction with our care. We are dedicated to making our office the best possible choice for root canal treatment.

Dr. Fadavi is known for her soft personal touch and has maintained a philosophy of treating everyone as she would like to be treated. We have built our practice to ensure that people who are in pain can be treated right away. Our goal has always been to make root canal treatment a comfortable and positive experience for our patients. We believe that treatment decisions should be made on what is best for the patient for the immediate and long term. It is also very important that the patient play a role in deciding their treatment based upon all information available. It is possible to perform endodontic therapy in one visit; this saves you time and anxiety by not needing to worry about multiple visits. You can return to your regular life as soon as possible. We understand your time is valuable, just as ours is. Above all, our office prides itself in making our patients feel comfortable, relaxed and at home. We do everything possible to reduce anxieties and remove preconceived, negative ideas that one might have had about root canal therapy. We do our very best to always provide the finest of care while maintaining sound ethics and integrity.

We understand that you may be apprehensive about your endodontic treatment. We will make every effort to ensure that your visit is as comfortable as possible and becomes a good dental experience. We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and can bring in a dental anesthesiologist to administer I.V. sedation for your endodontic treatment. We seek to create an atmosphere of understanding, open communications and mutual respect. Please do not hesitate to ask questions or offer any suggestions.

Each root canal is different just as every person is different. The doctors will be able to complete your root canal treatment as proficiently as possible, keep the treatment comfortable (painless) and much faster under the microscope and will be able to manage unforeseen problems that may arise either during or after treatment.

First Visit

Our doctor prefers to have a consultation prior to treatment to have a chance to evaluate the patient, and discuss their concerns. Sometimes, diagnostic procedures are needed simply to advise patients if root canal therapy is needed at all, or if their specific tooth will respond to therapy. Some procedures such as endodontic retreatment and periapical surgery require a thorough discussion of the treatment options and prognosis before therapy can be initiated. The best patient is an educated one. We are always happy to answer all your questions prior to starting any procedure. Treatment may be initiated at the initial visit if an emergency situation exists that requires attention.

Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your initial visit:

Your endodontic referral slip and any X-rays, if your dentist gave you these.
A list of medications you are presently taking.
If you have medical or dental insurance, bring the necessary information or forms, as this will help us to process your claim.

IMPORTANT: A parent or guardian must accompany all patients under the age of 18 years of age at the consultation visit.

Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, pregnancy , etc.)

X-Ray

In order to evaluate the relationships of tooth root anatomy, multiple x-ray films from different angles will be required. Any films you may have from your dentist are helpful in this evaluation, but not required.

Scheduling

Soft Touch Endodontics is open Monday – Friday from 9 am until 5 pm. We will schedule your appointment as promptly as possible. If you have pain or an emergency situation, every attempt will be made to see you that day. To accommodate the needs of the office or that patient in an emergency situation, we offer daily emergency care.

We try our best to stay on schedule to minimize your waiting. Due to the fact that Soft Touch Endodontics provides surgical services, various circumstances may lengthen the time allocated for a procedure. Emergency cases can also arise and cause delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

Please call our office at 562-431-1920 or 714-505-3636 during these hours to schedule an appointment. You may also contact us by e-mail info@softtouchendo.com. Please do not use the email address for next day, same day or emergency appointments.

Appointment Cancellation Policy

If you are unable to keep your appointment, please inform us three business days in advance, otherwise cancellation charges ($100.00) will be made. Appointments for treatment which are cancelled on same day will incur a $150.00 charge.

Financial Policy

Patient Billing

For your convenience we accept cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard and CareCredit. We deliver the finest care to our patients; therefore payment is due at the time service is rendered. If you have questions regarding your account, please contact us at 562-431-1920 or 714-505-3636, or info@softtouchendo.com. We will respond promptly. Many times, a simple telephone call will clear any misunderstandings.

Please remember you are fully responsible for all fees charged by this office regardless of your insurance coverage.

For your convenience, we will submit a claim to your insurance company for you. Most insurance companies will respond within four to six weeks. All necessary co-payments will be collected on the date of service. If the insurance company does not cover your procedure, you are responsible for any remaining balance after your insurance company has paid. Your prompt remittance is appreciated.

Insurance Information

At Soft Touch Endodontics we make every effort to provide you with the finest care and the most convenient financial options. To accomplish this we work hand-in-hand with you to maximize your insurance reimbursement for covered procedures. If you have any problems or questions, please ask our staff. They are well informed and up-to-date. They can be reached at 562-431-1920 or 714-505-3636 or info@softtouchendo.com.

Please call if you have any questions or concerns regarding your initial visit.

Please bring your insurance information with you to the consultation so that we can expedite reimbursement.

Endodontic FAQ

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or “root canal” contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.

I’m worried about x-rays. Should I be?

No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontics treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized system, called digital radiography, that produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to cotherapists via e-mail or diskette. For more information contact Schick Technologies, Inc.

What about infection?

Again, there’s no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.

Why do I need root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy is necessary when the pulp of your tooth becomes diseased or damaged. The disease or damage can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth or a crack or chip in the tooth. Additionally, a previous blow to a tooth may cause pulp damage.

What is root canal therapy?

What can I expect during root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy is often performed in one or two visits and involves the following steps:

Local anesthetic is administered
A small opening is made in the crown of your tooth ~- Very small instruments are used to remove the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals
Root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta percha. A temporary filling is placed to close the opening; your general dentist will replace this with a permanent restoration.

What may occur if I elect not to have root canal therapy and my tooth goes untreated?

If a diseased or damaged pulp is not removed, the tooth and surrounding tissues may become inflamed and/or infected, eventually resulting in an abscess. Left untreated, ultimately the tooth will have to be removed.

Why should I have root canal therapy rather than have the tooth extracted?

Our own natural teeth are always best. Authorities agree that artificial substitutes do not function or appear quite as well as natural teeth. In addition, extraction and replacement is usually much more costly.

If the pulp is removed will I have a “dead” tooth?

No. The tooth has two blood supplies. The pulp supply will be gone, but the other supply that comes from the surrounding tissues which supplies the root surface will continue to function.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact his office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond.

What new technologies are being used?

Operating Microscopes:
In addition to digital radiography, we utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth. Also, a tiny video camera on the operating microscope can record images of your tooth to further document the doctor’s findings. We also utilize advanced rotary instrumentation to clean and shape your canals, resulting in less post treatment discomfort.