When it comes to modern root canal treatment, advanced cleaning technology makes a huge difference. Many patients hear about systems like GentleWave® and EdgePRO™, and wonder which is better—or which one their endodontist uses.

At our practice, we’ve evaluated both technologies carefully. After comparing the science, the efficiency, and the clinical results, we confidently chose to invest in the EdgePRO™ Laser-Assisted Microfluidic Irrigation System.

Here’s why we prefer EdgePRO and how it benefits our patients every day.


Why Cleaning Technology Matters in Root Canal Treatment

The primary goal of a root canal is simple: remove bacteria, clean the inside of the tooth thoroughly, and seal it so it can heal properly.

But cleaning the microscopic spaces inside a tooth is extremely complex. Traditional tools can’t reach all the tiny canals, fins, and branches inside the root system.

That’s where modern irrigation technology comes in—and why high-end systems like EdgePRO and GentleWave exist.


How GentleWave® Works (And Why We Don’t Use It)

GentleWave® uses acoustic and fluid dynamics to move irrigants throughout the tooth. It’s designed to improve cleaning without the need for aggressive instrumentation.

GentleWave is a capable system, and many practices use it successfully.

However, after reviewing the data and real-world clinical performance, we found that EdgePRO offers significant advantages—especially in the areas patients care about most: precision, cleaning power, efficiency, and tooth preservation.


Why We Chose the EdgePRO™ Laser System

1. Laser Energy Provides Exceptional Cleaning Power

What sets EdgePRO apart is its laser-activated irrigation.

The 2780 nm Er,Cr:YSGG laser:

  • Creates advanced photoacoustic streaming
  • Generates powerful fluid motion
  • Breaks up biofilm
  • Penetrates deep into complex anatomy
  • Disrupts bacteria at a microscopic level

This laser energy enhances chemical irrigants beyond what acoustic-only systems can achieve.

Simply put: the laser reaches further, penetrates deeper, and cleans more thoroughly.


2. EdgePRO Enables Conservative, Tooth-Preserving Treatment

Because the laser enhances the cleaning power of irrigants, we don’t have to remove as much tooth structure to “open up” the canals.

This means:

✅ Less drilling
✅ More natural dentin preserved
✅ A stronger, longer-lasting tooth
✅ A more conservative endodontic approach

Patients often appreciate that the technology helps protect their natural tooth—not just treat the infection.


3. Cleaner Canals = Higher Success Rates

Clinical reports show that EdgePRO can remove:

  • Up to 99% of bacteria
  • Smear layer
  • Debris in tiny lateral canals and accessory anatomy

Better cleaning is directly linked to:

✅ Lower risk of reinfection
✅ Better long-term healing
✅ Fewer retreatments
✅ More predictable outcomes

This is a major reason we prefer laser-augmented technology.


4. More Efficient Treatment (Often in One Visit)

EdgePRO supports a streamlined workflow:

  • No long soak times
  • No large disposable handpieces
  • Less waiting for fluid cycles
  • Faster cleaning

This allows us to complete many cases—especially straightforward ones—in a single visit, while still providing high-level disinfection.


5. Less Post-Operative Sensitivity

Many patients report smoother recovery after EdgePRO because:

  • The laser reduces residual bacteria
  • The cleaning process is gentle on tissues
  • Less mechanical instrumentation is required

Healing feels easier and more predictable.


GentleWave® vs. EdgePRO™: The Simple Summary

While both systems aim to improve root canal cleaning:

  • GentleWave uses acoustic energy.
  • EdgePRO uses advanced laser-powered photoacoustic energy.

After evaluating both approaches, we found that the laser offers superior penetration, better cleaning efficiency, and more consistent results—all while allowing a more conservative, tooth-preserving treatment.

That’s why our practice chose EdgePRO and why we use it for nearly all root canal cases.


What This Means for You

When you come to our office for a root canal, you receive:

✅ Advanced laser-enhanced cleaning
✅ Deep penetration into complex anatomy
✅ Better disinfection
✅ Better long-term success
✅ Often a one-visit experience
✅ A more comfortable recovery
✅ Treatment that preserves your natural tooth

Your trust means everything to us, and choosing EdgePRO is one of the ways we ensure the highest level of care and technology in every procedure.