Each case presents its own set of challenges and considerations. Due to this, on some occasions a consultation explaining your diagnosis and treatment options will be required before a treatment appointment can be scheduled. Occasionally, treatment can be done the same day as the consultation. However, a complex medical history or treatment plan will require an evaluation and a second appointment to provide treatment on another day.
A patient may always request only a consultation first, should that be of benefit to the patient.
Treatment appointments may also be scheduled without having a separate consultation appointments, however, this will be at our office's discretion.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of appointment:
Your referral slip and any X-rays if applicable.
A list of medications you are presently taking.
If you have medical or dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any claims.
Completed new patient forms, available through the link that was included in the welcome email you received from our office.
*Please note a parent or guardian must accompany all patients under 18 to their appointment*
Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern prior to surgery (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are on any medication (i.e. heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.) or require medication prior to dental cleanings (i.e antibiotics, for pre-med.)
Acadiana Endodontics is open in the Lafayette office Monday through Thursday from 7:10 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. We are open in New Iberia every Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 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. We try our best to stay on schedule to minimize your waiting. Due to the fact that practice 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 337-981-0144 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.
Patient Billing Information
For your convenience we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and CareCredit. We deliver the finest care at the most reasonable cost to our patients, therefore payment is due at the time service is rendered unless other arrangements have been made in advance. If you have questions regarding your account, please contact us at 337 981-0144. Many times, a simple telephone call will clear up any misunderstandings.
Our office offers 6 months interest free financing through CareCredit. This is the only sort of payment plan/financing we offer. We do offer a 5% discount if you pay in FULL with either a check or cash. You must pay the entire total of your visit in full to receive this discount, not just your estimated portion if you have dental insurance. We are always happy to file a non-assigned claim for our patients with dental insurance who would like to take advantage of the cash/check discount. Feel free to call our office should you have any additional questions regarding this matter.
Please remember you are fully responsible for all fees charged by this office regardless of your insurance coverage.
At Acadiana 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 by phone at 337 981-0144. Please bring your insurance information with you to the consultation so that we can expedite reimbursement. If we are unable to verify your dental insurance benefits prior to your appointment, you will be responsible to pay in full at the time of service.
*Patients with dental insurance are responsible for any and all balances after insurance reimbursements and/or denials. Balance is to be paid in full to our office upon receipt of mailed statement.*
Endodontic FAQs
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 co-therapists 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.
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 days 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?
Digital 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.
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT):
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an innovative medical imaging technique that provides endodontists with three-dimensional views of the patient. In certain cases, CBCT greatly enhances the endodontist’s ability to diagnose, evaluate, treat and care for patients. During a CBCT scan, the machine rotates around the patient, capturing images using a cone-shaped X-ray beam. These images are then used to construct a 3-D representation of the patient’s teeth, oral and maxillofacial region (mouth, jaw, and neck), and ears, nose, and throat.