Endodontic Surgery
Endodontic surgery is a dental procedure that aims to treat conditions that affect the dental pulp and root of a tooth. This procedure is also known as an apicoectomy or root-end surgery. It is performed by an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating the dental pulp and root of teeth.
The following are the steps involved in the endodontic surgery procedure:
Examination and Diagnosis: The endodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth, including taking x-rays to determine the extent of the damage.
Local Anesthesia: The endodontist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth being treated.
Incision: The endodontist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the root of the tooth.
Root End Resection: The endodontist will remove the damaged portion of the root and the surrounding infected tissue.
Filling: The endodontist will fill the root with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and seal the area with a dental restoration.
Follow-up: After the procedure, the endodontist will provide you with detailed instructions for caring for the treated tooth and schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing process.
Endodontic surgery is a safe and effective way to treat dental pulp and root issues, allowing patients to keep their natural teeth rather than opting for extraction. It typically has a high success rate and can provide long-lasting relief from pain and discomfort.
Why should I Choose Dr. Aishwarya for Endodontic Surgery
Endodontic surgery, also known as apical surgery or root-end surgery, is a procedure performed by an endodontist to remove an infection or inflammation in the root tip of a tooth. Here is a complete treatment procedure for Endodontic Surgery:
- Consultation: The first step in endodontic surgery is a consultation with an endodontist. The endodontist will review your dental history, perform a thorough examination, and take x-rays to determine if you are a candidate for endodontic surgery.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth and provide pain relief during the procedure.
- Incision: The endodontist will make a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth to access the root tip.
- Removal of infected tissue: The endodontist will carefully remove the infected or inflamed tissue from the root tip of the tooth.
- Cleaning and shaping the root canal: The endodontist will clean and shape the root canal using special instruments to remove any remaining bacteria or debris.
- Placement of filling material: A biocompatible filling material is placed in the root tip to seal the root canal and prevent further infection.
- Suturing: The endodontist will then suture the gum tissue back in place to promote proper healing.
- Follow-up appointments: After the procedure, the endodontist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure the tooth is properly restored.
- Post-operative care: The endodontist will provide post-operative instructions on how to care for your mouth after the surgery, including pain management and diet restrictions.
- Restoration: After the endodontic surgery is complete, the tooth may need to be restored with a dental crown or other restoration to protect and strengthen the tooth.
It is important to note that not all endodontic cases require surgery, and in many cases, non-surgical root canal treatment can effectively treat the infection or inflammation. Your endodontist will determine the best course of treatment for your specific case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Endodontic surgery is a dental procedure that involves treating the dental pulp and root of a tooth. It may be necessary when conventional root canal therapy is unsuccessful, or when other issues are present, such as a blockage in the root canal system or a fracture in the tooth.
Symptoms that may indicate the need for endodontic surgery include persistent pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, swelling, or tenderness in the gums or jaw.
The length of the procedure depends on the complexity of the case, but it usually takes about an hour to complete.
Yes, you will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth being treated. In some cases, sedation may also be used to help you relax.
You should not feel any pain during the procedure, as the area will be completely numb. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.
Endodontic surgery has a high success rate, with up to 90% of cases being successful.
Most patients can return to normal activities the day after the procedure. However, you may need to avoid eating hard or crunchy foods and practicing good oral hygiene for several days.
Like any dental procedure, endodontic surgery carries some risks, such as infection or nerve damage. However, these complications are rare.
Following the procedure, you should practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
With proper care, the treated tooth can last a lifetime. However, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and follow your dentist's recommendations for follow-up care.
