What is endodontic surgery?
Endodontic surgery refers to a group of procedures designed to save your permanent teeth. If you undergo a root canal but your symptoms fail to improve, the team at NYCEndodontics might recommend endodontic surgery. Using special tools, they can fix any problems the root canal was unable to.
What are some common types of endodontic surgery?
At NYCEndodontics, the team offers several types of endodontic surgeries, including:
Apicoectomy
Apicoectomy, or a root resection, is a type of surgery that removes the end of an infected or inflamed tooth root. After removing the infected portion of the root, your NYCEndodontics provider fills the space with a biocompatible material, preserving your tooth.
Removal of calcium deposits
If the roots of your teeth become “calcified” and your provider is unable to access them with traditional dental instruments, you might also benefit from endodontic surgery. To remove calcium deposits, your provider uses special tools to clean and seal your root canals.
Root canal retreatment
In most cases, root canal therapy provides lifetime results. But it’s possible for your root canals to become reinfected. If that occurs, your NYCEndodontics provider might recommend surgery to stop the infection from spreading. This type of surgery is called root canal retreatment, and it preserves your tooth.
Might endodontic surgery benefit me?
Only a qualified endodontist, like the team at NYCEndodontics, can determine if you’re a candidate for endodontic surgery. Following an oral exam, a review of your dental health history, and a series of oral X-rays, your provider can design a custom care plan that aligns with your needs.
What is recovery like following endodontic surgery?
Following endodontic surgery, it’s normal to experience some mild swelling, increased tooth sensitivity, and discomfort. To speed up the healing process, the team recommends:
- Using a desensitizing toothpaste
- Eating only soft foods for a few days
- Brushing and flossing gently
- Avoiding extremely hot, cold, or spicy foods
Most people recover within a week, but if your symptoms persist or worsen, don’t wait to call the team.
To explore the benefits of endodontic surgery, make an appointment at NYCEndodontics by calling the office today or clicking the online scheduling tool.