Dr. Robin McGurkin-Smith

Welcome to our endodontic practice.  Endodontics is the dental speciality dedicated to saving natural teeth with root canal treatment and sugeries involving root canal treated teeth. Our staff of dedicated professionals look forward to providing you the finest root canal treatment in a comfortable and caring environment.  To us, "finest care" means a total commitment to the 100% satisfaction of you and your referring doctor. 

You'll discover throughout your entire association with us that you are treated with the utmost respect and understanding.  In addition, you'll become aware that we utilize the most technologically advanced equipment to ensure excellence in our diagnosis and treatment of your dental problem.

To allay any concerns you may have regarding your root canal treatment or surgery we promise that before your treatment begins we will provide you with a full explanation of our diagnosis and recommended treament, as well as answers to all your questions.

Root Canal Therapy in the era of COVID 19

We have always been and continue to be committed to keeping our office impeccably clean and sanitized. In response to the spread of COVID-19, we have increased the frequency of these cleaning routines.      

We have air scrubbers, with HEPA rated filters, in the operatories and air purifiers, with HEPA rated filters, throughout the office.  These machines are kept on 24 hours a day.  An air scrubber and an air purifier equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air)-rated filter can technically capture a portion of airborne virus-sized particles. Once trapped, viruses cannot multiply on their own or remain infectious.

Dr. Robin McGurkin-Smith and her assistants have updated their personal protective equipment as recommended by the American Dental Association.  Each  wears an N95 masks covered by a surgical mask and a surgical gown for consultations and treatments. 

Additional information on the office COVID-19 policies is found under the "Coronavirus (COVID-19) policies" tab located on the upper left of this page. 

We continually strive to make available the latest technology for the expert diagnosis and treatment of dental problems.  Our investment in the advanced technology means a long-term investment in your future.  State of the art technology invites informed decision-making and enables our patients to make wise choices concerning their dental health.

Endodontic Microscope

The use of the dental microscope enables Dr. Robin to perform treatment with greater accuracy because the treatment area is magnified.  The tooth is illuminated, often making small canals and hidden fractures more visible.  Attached to the microscope is a digital camera.  The camera allows Dr. Robin to photograph parts of the procedure and share the treatment of your tooth with you and your referring dentist.

3-D Imaging

We have added the J Morita Veraviewpocs 3-D CBCT to our endodontic toolbox. The 3-D machine, along with the microscope, helps with determining root canal anatomy and patient anatomy making endodontic treatment, retreatment and surgery more predictable. The Veraviewpocs 3-D shows subtle details that a radiograph does not show. Clinical studies support the improved diagnostic capabilities of this technology.

Digital Radiography System

Root Canal Therapy often requires more X-rays to be taken than other dental services.  This new technology allows Dr. Robin to take digital X-rays that appear almost instantly on the computer screen without using film or chemicals.  Because the digital X-ray system is more sensitive than regular X-ray systems your exposure to radiation is reduced as much as 90%.

Ultrasonic Unit

The ultrasonic unit attaches to small diamond coated tips which vibrate at 20,000 cycles per second.  The small size of the tip allows more visibility of the tooth particularly when the microscope is used.  The ultrasonic unit is a tool used by Dr. Robin for locating small canals and gently removing objects from previous therapy including posts and filling materials.  In addition, the ultrasonic unit is invaluable to modern endodontic surgery.

We now offer moderate IV sedation and minimal oral sedation. Most patients do not require sedation for endodontic procedures. There are times when sedation is a Godsend. These include patients who have high dental anxiety, claustrophobia or just the "wiggles". Please keep our office in mind if you feel that you might benefit from this service.