Team

One Dedicated, Caring Support Team.

Our dental specialists are highly skilled, published in the most prestigious dental journals, and are focused completely on you. Our entire staff will greet you with a warm welcome and make sure your comfort and care is our paramount concern.

video  Endodontists: Partners in Patient Care

Dr. Wurm, DDS, MS

Alisha, CLDA

Dental Assistant

Andrea, CLDA

Dental Assistant

Courtney, CLDA

Dental Assistant

Erin, LDA

Dental Assistant

Jamie, CLDA

Dental Assistant

Melissa, LDA

Dental Assistant

Nicole, LDA, RF

Dental Assistant

Amanda, LDA

Patient Care Coordinator

Heidi, LDA

Patient Care Coordinator

Technology

State Of The Art Technologies For Superior Diagnosis, Treatment & Results.

Our focus is to deliver you the best treatment, and that requires that we constantly strive to improve ourselves professionally and technologically. As with all aspects of life, technology constantly changes in endodontics, and it’s our job to scientifically examine new technologies to find out which ones improve treatment and which do not. Rest assured, the doctors at Central Minnesota Endodontics are up to date on the science and the technology available to you, and you will receive the best of both.

GentleWave Procedure
The GentleWave Procedure is a state-of-the-art technological supplement to standard root canal treatment. The ultracleaning technology of the GentleWave Procedure is an advanced combination of fluid dynamics and a broad range of soundwaves that work together to reach into the microscopic spaces and remove bacteria, debris and tissue. The GentleWave Procedure is so effective at cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system, there’s less chance of failure over time.

The GentleWave Procedure uses a minimally invasive protocol to access the infected root canal system, which means it is preserving more of the natural tooth and, in doing so, is helping to keep the tooth’s structure strong. With the GentleWave Procedure, we can also typically clean and fill the tooth in just one appointment, reducing the number of appointments required.

The sterilized GentleWave equipment is single-use, eliminating the possibility of cross-contamination. And as a closed-loop system, the GentleWave Procedure has been shown to produce virtually no aerosols, reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

video Video Overview  |  Learn More

Carestream 8100 3D Cone Beam CT Scanner
The Carestream 8100 3D provides very detailed three-dimensional digital radiographs of the jaws to image areas of interest with greatly reduced radiation when compared to medium and full field of view cone beam CT units. This image can help us visualize otherwise invisible conditions that may be affecting your teeth and jaws.

Surgical Microscopes
Surgical microscopes are used during all phases of your endodontic treatment. Most dentists operate at 1 (your normal vision) to 3 times magnification. The surgical microscope allows us to operate at 2.1 to 19.2 times magnification. Magnification and the associated fiber optic illumination enable us to see small, often-missed details such as accessory canals, calcified canals, and cracks.

Digital Radiographs (X-rays)
You will notice that all your radiographs at Central Minnesota Endodontics will be taken digitally, ensuring that we are able to examine your teeth and jaws in high resolution and at 50-80% less radiation than conventional film radiographs.

Advanced Irrigation Techniques
Once your tooth has been properly cleaned and shaped, we may choose to employ negative pressure or ultrasonic irrigation techniques to ensure a completely disinfected tooth, devoid of bacterial biofilms. 

Procedures

Our Focus Is Advanced Root Canal Techniques & Procedures.

Endodontists focus on root canal treatment techniques and procedures in greater depth to give you peace of mind. As specialists, we have seen everything from the routine cases to the most difficult and the rarely seen. For this reason, many dentists choose to refer their patients to endodontists.

video  Endodontists Put Root Canal Patients at Ease

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We will first talk with you about any symptoms you’ve experienced and any signs your dentist may have noted.  We will then examine and x-ray your tooth.  Once a diagnosis has been reached, we will administer local anesthetic.  We will go to great lengths to ensure profound numbness of your tooth.  Next, a small protective sheet called a “dental dam” or “rubber dam” is placed over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.  This step is standard of care in all root canals.

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We will then make an opening in the crown of the tooth. Very small instruments are used to clean out your tooth, ensuring complete debridement (removal) of the inflamed or infected pulp from the chamber and the canals.  The canal will also be shaped to improve access for our disinfectants. We will employ several disinfectants and irrigation methods to properly disinfect your tooth.

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Once cleaned and shaped, the canal space is obturated (filled) with a material called “gutta-percha.” The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening. For in-depth information regarding this procedure please visit the American Association of Endodontists.

video  Root Canal Video Overview

ROOT CANAL BEFORE & AFTERS

  • before before

    Diagnosis:
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    after after

    Treatment:
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Patient Info

What to Expect

We start with a limited diagnostic examination including necessary radiographs (x-rays). In consultation with your general dentist, we will determine if your tooth is a good candidate for endodontic therapy and explain your treatment options.

If you are interested in receiving any anxiety reducing agents, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives, please inform our staff.  We gladly provide nitrous oxide to our patients upon request, but should you be interested in oral sedatives, this must be arranged beforehand through your medical doctor, your general dentist, or through our office following an appropriate consultation.

The next step is usually non-surgical treatment to remove the injured pulp and cleanse and seal the canal system. This therapy normally involves local anesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required. We will inform you as soon as possible if we determine that your tooth is not suitable for root canal treatment or the prognosis changes any time during the course of treatment. In most cases after endodontic treatment, you will be comfortable returning immediately to your normal routine.

Generally, non-surgical treatment is all that is needed to save a tooth with an injured pulp. Occasionally, endodontic microsurgery is required when routine endodontic treatment does not result in healing.

It is often necessary to return to your family dentist to receive an appropriate restoration (a cap or a crown), which will serve as protection for the tooth.  Should you neglect to return for the proper restoration, there is an increased risk of failure of endodontic therapy, tooth fracture, and/or premature loss of the tooth.

Common Questions

What is root canal therapy?
Root Canal Therapy (Endodontics) involves the removal of all inflammation and infection from the root canal system. During the treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed. Any abscesses which may be present can also be drained at this time. The root canal is then cleaned, and the tooth may be temporized to allow any symptoms to resolve before a permanent crown is applied. Permanent crowns are recommended on all back teeth that have been endodontically treated.

Why is root canal therapy needed?The nerve may become damaged by bacteria associated with past or present decay, by a traumatic blow, or by bacterial leakage through cracks. Root canal therapy allows you to keep the natural tooth in a healthy state rather than substituting it with an artificial tooth.

Will the treatment be painful?We will take every measure to ensure that your procedure is in no way uncomfortable or painful. If treatment is needed, we will inject a small amount of anesthetic to gently numb a concentrated area of your mouth. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after 2-3 hours.

Will I need x-rays?We will take x-rays during your visit. If you have x-rays from your general dentist, please bring them with you. Our doctors utilize the latest in digital x-ray technology. Digital x-rays allow the doctors to quickly and reliably determine the course of treatment you may require. Also, digital x-rays reduce your radiation exposure significantly, by 50-85%.

How long does root canal treatment take?Root Canal treatment can usually be completed in one visit. In some cases, a second visit is required. Please allow 2 hours for your office visit.

What do I do after my root canal treatment?You will be given instructions by the staff after your treatment. If you are given pain and/or antibiotic medications, please take as directed. It is often necessary to return to your family dentist to receive an appropriate restoration (a cap or a crown), which will serve as protection for the tooth. Should you neglect to return for the proper restoration, there is an increased risk of failure of endodontic therapy, tooth fracture, and/or premature loss of the tooth.

Will I need to return to your office for follow-ups after the procedure is finished?Yes, for most root canal treatments, we recommend that patients return to the office 6-12 months after the procedure was finished. You will be given a schedule for your check-up appointment at the completion of your treatment.

What if the tooth is still uncomfortable?It is normal to experience soreness for 1 to 2 weeks following treatment. We recommend 3 ibuprofen (600mg) or 2 Extra Strength Tylenol or acetaminophen (1000mg) to relieve your soreness. Should you have discomfort that you can’t control with ordinary pain relievers, or you notice any facial swelling, immediately call our office or your endodontist’s emergency line.

What if my original root canal is re-infected?Root canal treatment is usually very successful. However, if there should be a recurrence of infection, the treatment can be repeated or other treatments can be rendered as deemed appropriate by the endodontist.

What if I don’t have the root canal treatment?The alternative to root canal therapy is the removal of the tooth. Once the pulp is destroyed, it cannot heal, and it is not recommended to leave the infected tooth in the mouth. The risks of doing so are emergency pain and/or swelling ranging from minor to necessary of hospitalization. While some people would prefer an extraction, it is usually advisable to keep the natural teeth if possible.

Do you have methods of dealing with dental anxiety?The doctors and staff at Central Minnesota Endodontics are here for you with a friendly chairside manner. Also, if you are interested in receiving any anxiety reducing agents, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives, please inform our staff. We gladly provide nitrous oxide to our patients upon request, but should you be interested in oral sedatives, this must be arranged beforehand through your medical doctor, your general dentist, or through our office following an appropriate consultation.

Do I need to take an antibiotic before treatment?Patients with heart problems or joint replacements may be accustomed to taking an antibiotic before their dental appointments. However, recent changes in the guidelines may no longer require this. Please consult with your physician to determine whether or not you require an antibiotic before dental appointments.
The American Dental Association’s brief explanation of the most recent premedication guidelines can be found here.

Payment

Endodontic fees are based on the complexity of the procedure. You will be advised of the fee for each procedure prior to treatment. Payment is due in full at the time of service.

We honor a 5% savings to our patients who pay in full with cash or check. We also accept Visa, MasterCard, DiscoverCard, and American Express.

For your convenience, we also work with CareCredit. CareCredit is a finance company that offers low fixed interest payment plans. Please see www.carecredit.com for more information.

Insurance

We are currently a provider of:

  • Delta Dental Premier, Options and Preferred
  • Delta USA
  • HealthPartners

As a courtesy service to you, we will submit to most dental insurance providers, with the exception of medical assistance programs since we are not a medical assistance provider.

If you do have dental insurance, please speak with our patient coordinator about your payment due at the time of service.

Be advised that insurance companies routinely indicate that coverage verification does not guarantee payment. While we try our best to estimate your out-of-pocket expense, actual payment is determined by the insurance company once they process the claim.

Patient Testimonials

  • This treatment was nothing like my past dental experiences! The staff is excellent and perfectly professional. They provide all-around outstanding care! Thank you tons!

  • I love this clinic! I was very impressed and pleased with the friendliness and professionalism of the staff. They were very patiently answered all the questions I had. I highly recommend this clinic.

  • I give them 10 stars, a perfect score! I’m so thankful for the wonderful care team! They deserve a pat on the back!

  • It was my first root canal, and I had a ton of anxiety. Everyone I encountered in the office was fantastic. This procedure was much more pleasant than my routine dental cleanings. Thank you Dr. Wurm for making my experience enjoyable a pleasant!

  • I’m so thankful you were able to get me in last minute and provide such great treatment. I haven’t had to take anything for pain, and I feel so much better.

  • Dr. Wurm was gentle, explained what she was doing and how it was going. Her assistant was kind and reassuring.  Plus, I couldn’t believe how quickly it went.  Yay!  I wish she could be my dentist.

  • They are true professionals! Thank you for easing my anxiety.

VIEW TESTIMONIALS

Testimonials

  • This treatment was nothing like my past dental experiences! The staff is excellent and perfectly professional. They provide all-around outstanding care! Thank you tons!

  • I love this clinic! I was very impressed and pleased with the friendliness and professionalism of the staff. They were very patiently answered all the questions I had. I highly recommend this clinic.

  • I give them 10 stars, a perfect score! I’m so thankful for the wonderful care team! They deserve a pat on the back!

  • It was my first root canal, and I had a ton of anxiety. Everyone I encountered in the office was fantastic. This procedure was much more pleasant than my routine dental cleanings. Thank you Dr. Wurm for making my experience enjoyable a pleasant!

  • I’m so thankful you were able to get me in last minute and provide such great treatment. I haven’t had to take anything for pain, and I feel so much better.

  • Dr. Wurm was gentle, explained what she was doing and how it was going. Her assistant was kind and reassuring.  Plus, I couldn’t believe how quickly it went.  Yay!  I wish she could be my dentist.

  • They are true professionals! Thank you for easing my anxiety.

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Locations

SARTELL OFFICE
SARTELL LOBBY

Sartell

1900 Kruchten Court South Suite 100
Sartell, MN 56377
Directions
Printable Map

4th building on the right past CH Robinson Bldg

Hours:
Mon – Thur: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm
Fri: 7:00 am to 2:00 pm
Emergency appointments as needed

Contact

    Call:
    (320) 656-1456

    Toll Free:
    (888) 343-4403

    Fax:
    (320) 656-0195

    Email:
    info@centralmnendo.com

    Mailing Address:
    1900 Kruchten Court S Suite 100
    Sartell, MN 56377