- X-raysWe use an advanced digital radiography system in place of conventional dental x-rays, which reduces radiation exposure to our patients by up to 90% and improves diagnositic capabilities. This technology also eliminates environmental exposure of the hazardous byproducts of x-ray film developing.
- Teeth Cleaning
- Fillings
- CrownsAn extremely bright, focused light plus magnification equals enhanced vision. We utilize a surgical operating microscope (SOM) to achieve this superior vision, so that we can achieve better results for our patients. Some root canals have a diameter of 0.08 mm, and are extremely difficult to locate, especially if you consider that they are housed deep inside the crown of a tooth. By employing this microscopes, we are able to locate micro-fractures that otherwise might go undetected. Posts, pins, broken instruments, and obstructions found in retreatment cases are more easily addressed utilizing this microscope as well. From diagnosis to treatment, the SOM benefits the patient and endodontist alike.
- Root Canal TreatmentEffectively cleaning the deepest, most complex portions of the root canal system requires incredible innovation — and we are proud to offer that technology with the GentleWave® Procedure.
- ApicoectomyThere are many surgical procedures that can be performed to save a tooth. The most common is called an apicoectomy, or root-end resection, which is occasionally needed when inflammation or infection persists in the bony area around the end of your tooth after a root canal procedure. In this microsurgical procedure, the endodontist opens the gum tissue near the tooth to see the underlying bone and to remove any inflamed or infected tissue. The very end of the root is also removed. A small filling may be placed to seal the end of the root canal and few stitches or sutures are placed to help the tissue heal. Over a period of months, the bone heals around the end of the root. Local anesthetics make the procedure comfortable, and most patients return to their normal activities the next day. Postsurgical discomfort is generally mild.
- Oral Surgery
- Orthodontics
- General DentistryDr. Sturm received his Bachelor of Science degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey in 1987. He continued on to Boston University School of Dental Medicine and received his Doctorate of Dental Medicine in 1991. After practicing general dentistry in New Jersey for 6 years, he attended USC, where he completed a residency in endodontics. He previously had been affiliated with USC serving as a guest lecturer on endodontic emergencies, diagnosis and treatment planning. He is a member of the American Association of Endodontist and is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Sturm lives in Santa Barbara, with his wife Michelle, daughter Emma and son Jacob Seymour.