Endodontic Surgery
What is Endodontic Surgery?
In some cases, a typical root canal is not enough to save a tooth from infection and future problems. In this event, endodontic surgery can and should be done to help in removing infection and preventing pain and discomfort. Endodontic surgery is often referred to as an apicoectomy. It involves removing disease and infected tissue from around the roots of the teeth as well as a small portion of the tip of this root.
Why would Endodontic Surgery be needed?
If you’ve recently had a root canal and are still experiencing severe pain and discomfort weeks or months later, an apicoectomy may be necessary. The pain is due to a small amount of infection that is found in the underlying bone area where the roots of the tooth are located. If left untreated, this infection can get worse and have an impact on your oral health and general sense of well-being.
Who is a candidate for Endodontic Surgery?
Prior to performing endodontic surgery, we will take x-rays and other images to help in identifying areas of infection. In some cases, there is nothing in or around the tooth and other procedures may be considered. However, if you have an infection within the underlying bone or around the roots of the tooth, we will often recommend this surgery. It is easily done in office and can save you from the pain and discomfort that would otherwise be constant.
What happens during Endodontic Surgery?
During the surgery, we will provide you with anesthetic or sedation of your choosing. We then make a small incision through the gum tissue to gain access to the underlying bone. Infected bone is then removed from the tooth and a filling material put into its place. A small portion of the root’s tip will be removed at this time as well. The gum tissue is sutured carefully to promote even, quick healing. If you received general anesthesia, you’ll need to go home with someone as it’s unsafe for you to drive yourself.
If you think you might need endodontic surgery, call our office today and we will be able to answer all of your questions.