A History of Proven Efficacy

After obturation of a mandibular left second molar, a complex apical anatomy was visible between the mesial and distal canals. This anatomy was not known prior to the GentleWave Procedure.

This case is a beautiful example of the power of the GentleWave^® Procedure with conservative instrumentation. Using VTaper 2H files to retain as much cervical root structure as possible, the Multisonic Ultracleaning^® energy of the GentleWave Procedure allowed us to accomplish our goals for maximum cleaning and disinfection. Notice the secondary anatomy — areas clearly cleaned by the GentleWave^® System — where I never introduced a file.

Upon clinical examination, the mandibular left second premolar (#20) revealed an asymptomatic tooth with no sensitivity to percussion or palpation and Class I mobility. Post GentleWave^® Procedure, at nine-month recall, clinical evaluation showed the tooth was asymptomatic. Radiographic evaluation showed complete bone regrowth and periradicular healing.

Post obturation, an apical delta containing multiple exits was discovered in the palatal canal, which would have otherwise been left undiscovered and uncleaned without the GentleWave^® Procedure.

Six months post-op, the periradicular bone appeared to have completely healed. The patient resumed active orthodontic treatment. This case illustrates the power of a single-visit GentleWave® Procedure in effectively cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system and promoting rapid healing.

With the assistance of the GentleWave^® Procedure, I was able to complete a very challenging root canal on tooth #13 in a single visit. The patient presented with pain (4 on a 10-point scale) to cold and biting for the past month. The canal anatomy corkscrewed, with the final 2 mm turning beyond a 90-degree bend. Ni-Ti hand files and rotary instruments couldn't access beyond the bend without significant unwinding and risk of separation. Working length was achieved with sizes 6, 8 and 10 K files. Final instrumentation to 25.06 was completed to the point where the file could reach, which was essentially before the apical curve. Following the GentleWave Procedure, the canal was dried and filled with BC Sealer^™ and warm gutta-percha. The post-procedure radiograph revealed apical deltas. Post-operatively, the patient reported no pain or swelling and a complete relief of symptoms.

Before adopting the GentleWave^® Procedure, adequate debridement of the canal—especially apical to the curvature—would have been significantly more difficult, and the risk of instrument separation would have been greater.