General Questions
What billing codes code can I use for the test?
Because this technology is so new there are not any CDT codes for ATP testing. Some of the providers have used code D0415 (microorganism culturing) or D3999 (unspecified endo). It is up to the discretion of the provider to set the fee scale for the test.
How accurate is the test?
Under laboratory conditions the chairside ATP testing can detect the presence of as few as 10 bacteria. In a root canal setting our test can detect ATP well before the presence of a single culturable bacteria. The Endocator detects ATP from cultural bacteria, unculturable bacteria, nerve tissue, blood, saliva, and apical fluid so it is a much more complete evaluation tool of root canal cleanliness than simple bacterial culturing.
Is there any research to support Endocator?
The Endocator is truly cutting edge technology and research is pending and will be added to the website after publication. Previous attempts to quantify ATP present in root canals was promising but required complicated laboratory techniques, took several minutes to run, and never became popular. Research about success rates of root canals with bacteria, and retreating root canals that are found to have bacteria can be found on pubmed.
Procedure Questions
What does it mean when I have a score of 100?
Higher scores 70-100 mean that the root canal has lots of ATP present. This ATP could be from bacteria, nerve, tissue, blood, or saliva. A low scores 0-30 means that the root canal is clean and has low levels of ATP. If you have high levels of ATP it is up to your best clinical judgement as to what do next, but additional rinses, activation, time, and possibly increasing the final file sizes are all possible strategies to bring down ATP levels.
When is it recommended to test the canals for debris?
The tooth can be tested anytime to check for ATP levels but at the very least it is a good idea to check for ATP levels just before finishing the root canal or before sealing a tooth with calcium hydroxide in case a second visit is necessary. For research purposes ATP testing is also a great tool to compare various acivation methods (sonic vs. Ultrasonic vs laser vs gentlewave).
What if I notice blood in the canal or on the tip of the paper point after testing for ATP?
Blood contamination inside of the root canal will give you high ATP readings. Apical bleeding should be controlled prior to ATP testing.
Ordering Questions
How Much does Endocator cost?
Starter packages of one Endocator and 20 testers cost $1695. ATP testers cost less than 6$ a test.
How do I order the Endocator?
The Endocator can be ordered directly through this website or through one of our distributor partners.
What is the shelf-life of the testers?
One year if placed in the refrigerator and one month at room temperature.