Apparatus, methods, and compositions for endodontic treatments

Abstract

Examples of apparatus, methods, and compositions for endodontic treatments are described. The apparatus can include a fluid platform configured to substantially retain fluid in a tooth chamber during treatment. The fluid platform can help maintain fluid circulation in the tooth chamber as fluid flows into and out of the tooth chamber. The apparatus can also include a pressure wave generator configured to generate acoustic waves that can be used for cleaning root canals and tooth surfaces in the tooth chamber. Examples of pressure wave generators include a liquid jet, an electromagnetic energy delivery device, and an ultrasonic device. The fluid can include antiseptic or antibacterial solutions to assist in tooth cleaning. The fluid may be degassed to have a reduced dissolved gas content (compared to non-degassed fluids used in endodontic treatments), which may improve the effectiveness of the pressure wave generation or the cleaning.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An apparatus for treating a tooth, the apparatus comprising:
 a fluid retainer configured to be applied to the tooth to substantially retain fluid in a tooth chamber in the tooth; and   a pressure wave generator having a distal portion, the distal portion being configured to be inserted through the fluid retainer into the tooth chamber.