Endodontic Surgery in West Jordan

Endodontic surgery, often referred to as apicoectomy, is a specialized dental procedure used to treat issues within the tooth’s root or surrounding bone that cannot be resolved with traditional root canal therapy. This surgery is usually required when inflammation or infection persists in the bony area around the end of your tooth after a root canal procedure. It’s also used to remove calcium deposits in root canals or to treat damaged root surfaces or surrounding bone.

Endodontic surgery involves making an incision in the gum tissue near the tooth to uncover the underlying bone and the root end of the tooth. The infected or inflamed tissue is removed along with the last few millimeters of the root tip. A small filling may then be placed in the root to seal the end of the root canal, and a few stitches are placed in the gum to help the tissue heal properly.

Endodontic surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, making the procedure comfortable and pain-free. Post-surgical discomfort is generally mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients return to their normal activities within a few days.

The primary benefit of endodontic surgery is the preservation of the natural tooth, which can help maintain proper chewing function, prevent other teeth from shifting, and preserve your natural appearance. It’s an excellent option for saving a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.

Recovery from endodontic surgery usually takes a few days, and most patients can return to their regular activities quickly. Complete healing of the bone can take a few months, but you can usually resume normal dental routines the day after surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved, but they are minimal. Possible risks include infection, damage to nearby nerves, or sinus problems if the surgical area is close to sinus passages. Our endodontist will discuss these potential risks with you before the procedure.

Endodontic surgery has a high success rate. The procedure is effective in saving teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Success rates vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the overall health of the affected tooth.

It depends on the condition of your existing crown. If the crown and the tooth structure beneath it are sound, the existing crown may be able to be used. However, if the crown or tooth structure is damaged during the surgery, a new crown will be needed.

After the surgery, it’s important to follow our endodontist’s instructions for care. This typically includes taking prescribed medications, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding chewing on the affected side until the area has healed.

The main alternative to endodontic surgery is tooth extraction. However, saving the natural tooth is usually the preferred option due to the long-term benefits for oral health. If extraction is the only option, it can be followed by an implant or bridge to replace the lost tooth.