For Our Patients!
Our Process
Your First Visit
Your initial appointment will consist of a thorough examination and comprehensive evaluation of your case. Dr. Malek will review your medical and dental histories, perform any necessary clinical testing, and evaluate 2D and 3D radiographs. She will then discuss her findings, and explain your diagnosis and treatment options. This is also an opportunity to ask questions and discuss the anticipated length of treatment, any recommended medications, sedation options, and any follow-up care that may be required with your general dentist. Our team will also provide an estimate of your insurance benefits and expected out-of-pocket costs.
To help us make your consultation as efficient and productive as possible, please bring the following to your appointment:
Your referral slip and any recent X-rays, if applicable
A complete list of your current medications
Your dental insurance information, if you have coverage. This will allow our team to assist you in processing any claims.
Please note that patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at the consultation visit.
scheduling
At Salinas Endodontics, we are committed to treating every patient with compassion, patience, and our full and undivided attention. We schedule treatment appointments so that Dr. Malek is devoted entirely to one patient at a time, ensuring that your care never feels rushed and that you receive the focused clinical attention your case deserves. We make every effort to schedule your appointment as promptly as possible, and for patients experiencing a severe infection or uncontrollable pain, we will do our very best to accommodate you the same day. Because we reserve dedicated time for each patient, we kindly ask that you provide at least 3 business days' notice if you need to reschedule your appointment, allowing us to offer that time to another patient in need. Please be aware that broken appointments or cancellations made with insufficient notice may result in an additional fee of $75.
After Treatmemt Instructions
Please find downloadable instructions below in English and Spanish
Frequently Asked Questions
Modern root canal treatment is performed using local anesthesia and advanced techniques designed to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Most patients report that having a root canal feels similar to receiving a routine filling.
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one 1-2 hour long visit, although some cases may require a second appointment depending on the complexity of the tooth and the extent of infection.
Endodontists are dental specialists who receive additional years of advanced training focused exclusively on diagnosing tooth pain and performing root canal treatment, retreatment, endodontic surgery, and other procedures involving the dental pulp and roots.
Most patients are able to drive themselves home after treatment, and return to normal activities. However, patients receiving oral sedation should arrange for a responsible adult to provide transportation.
Severe tooth pain, swelling, dental trauma, or signs of infection should be evaluated as soon as possible. Contact our office immediately so we can determine the most appropriate course of action.
Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days following treatment, which can be managed with ibuprofen and/or tylenol. In many cases, you will be referred back to your general dentist for a permanent restoration, such as a crown, to protect the tooth and restore full function.
Coverage varies by insurance plan. As a courtesy, we will provide an estimate of your benefits and submit claims on your behalf, but patients remain responsible for any balances not covered by insurance.
A CBCT scan is a three-dimensional image that allows Dr. Malek to evaluate the tooth, roots, surrounding bone, and nearby structures with exceptional detail. This technology greatly improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.
Yes. We make every effort to accommodate patients experiencing severe dental pain, swelling, infection, or dental trauma as quickly as possible, including same-day appointments.
Yes. Dr. Malek provides specialized care for children and adolescents, including treatment for dental trauma, pulpotomies, apexogenesis, regenerative endodontics, and root canal treatment for developing teeth. We also provide nitrous oxide (laughing gas) as a safe sedation option for children and adolescents.
