Endodontic Surgery Lemoore, CA

When to Get Endodontic Surgery

Several different situations may require endodontic surgery. Here are some of the most comon:

Calcification

Sometimes, non-surgical root canal procedures are not an option due to excessively narrow canals in the teeth. This happens when calcium deposits make it impossible for the non-surgical instruments to reach the end of the root. In such cases, endodontic surgery is necessary to clean and seal the remainder of the canal.

Damage

Often, damage to the root surfaces or surrounding bone cannot be adequately treated with non-surgical solutions. Endodontic surgery can remove the necrotic or damaged pulp of the tooth.

Diagnosis

Patients who have persistent symptoms of discomfort may undergo X-rays and other forms of non-surgical treatment to try to identify the problem. Because endodontic surgery examines the entire root, it can help identify tiny fractures or canals that can go otherwise undetected.

Retreatment

Root canals are usually complication-free; however, a tooth may become painful or diseased months to years after treatment. Endodontic surgery can address such matters of improper healing or infection.

According to the American Association of Endodontists, there are many different types of endodontic surgery. Apicoectomy, a procedure that removes the tip of the root, is the most common. Other procedures include dividing a tooth in half, repairing an injured root, and removing one or more roots.

Preparing for Endodontic Surgery

Every endodontic surgery begins with an initial consultation with a dentist.The dentist may be able to perform a comprehensive exam to determine if a patient should consider endodontic surgery. Maintaining an open and honest dialogue with the dental professional is key to preparing for endodontic surgery. Patients should be forthcoming about any prescription medications, vitamins, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements that they are taking.

Any of these products may influence the progression of the surgery. Furthermore, the dentist may need to consult with the patient's primary care physician if the patient is undergoing treatment for other medical conditions. All of these factors are key in preparing the ideal treatment plan for each patient.

What to Know About Endodontic Surgery

Knowing what to expect from an endodontic surgery can better prepare patients for the procedure. Patients can rest easy knowing that modern technologies such as digital imaging and operating microscopes allow endodontic surgeons to work more quickly and successfully than ever before.

Before endodontic surgery, the surgeon will inject a local anesthetic in the patient's gums. An apicoectomy, also known as a root-end resection, is the most well-known type of endodontic surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon will open the gum tissue near the tooth to expose the underlying bone. At this point, the surgeon will remove any inflamed or infected tissue, along with the end of the root.

Recovering After Endodontic Surgery

Toward the end of the procedure, some patients may receive a small filling to seal the end of the root canal. They may also require some stitches or sutures to assist in tissue healing. The bone in the surrounding area of the root will continue to heal over the next few months. Most patients can return to normal activities as soon as one day after surgery, and any post-surgical discomfort tends to be mild and easily manageable.