About Main Line Endodontic Associates
Main Line Endodontic Associates, P.C. began as the practice of Dr. Louis I. Grossman in Philadelphia in the 1930’s. Dr. Grossman is regarded as the "father of endodontic therapy" since he wrote the first text book in 1940 and performed much of the original work in endodontics. Dr. Edgar R. Kunz, Jr. (the father of Dr. Brian Kunz) joined Dr. Grossman in the practice of endodontics in the late 1950’s. Both taught at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.
The practice moved to Villanova in 1977 and Dr. Brian S. Kunz joined the practice. On the retirement of Dr. Edgar Kunz, Dr. Craig A. Hurtt became the latest member of the practice.
Dr. Kunz and Dr. Hurtt continue to follow in the footsteps of their mentors, Dr. Grossman and Dr. Kunz, in providing the best and latest in scientific endodontic care for their patients in a caring and compassionate manner.
New Technologies
Our treatment rooms are equipped with the latest effective technological advances in endodontics, including microscopes, ultrasonics, cone beam CT scan, and digital x-rays. In addition to endodontic therapy, we also provide bleaching of endodontically treated teeth, jaw pain diagnosis, and microsurgical endodontic care.
Digital Radiography
All radiographs (x-rays) in our office are taken with digital sensors using an advanced non-film computerized system. This system reduces x-ray levels up to 80% from traditional film based dental x-ray systems.Operating Microscopes
We utilize special operating microscopes. Magnification and fiberoptic illumination enable us to see small, often missed details such as calcified canals and fractures.Cone Beam Computed Tomography
When needed, the Kodak 9000 3D provides very detailed three-dimensional digital radiographs of the jaws to image areas of interest with minimal radiation. This new technology provides us with unprecedented ability to diagnose problems in the roots of teeth and the adjacent bone.Laser Root Canal Therapy - Using Fotona's LightWalker® Er:YAG laser, we are able to better sterilize the canals of the tooth by removing infection-causing bacteria and necrotic tissue, with the aim of reducing reinfection rates.
About Endodontics
Endodontics is a specialty of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association dealing with treatment of the pulp and surrounding tissues of a 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 the root. The outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin. The inside root canal contains the pulp, a soft tissue consisting of blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria introduced into the pulp because of tooth decay, periodontal disease, or a fracture can cause inflammation, pain, and severe damage to the pulp.
To save the tooth and prevent further problems, the root canal is cleaned, disinfected, and filled. After successful therapy, your general dentist will restore the tooth to normal function.
For more information about endodontic treatment, please go to the American Association of Endodontics website: www.AAE.org.