Endodontic surgery is a procedure performed in your endodontist’s office that is more complex than a typical root canal. At Advanced Endodontic Specialists in South Barrington, Illinois, our specialists provide endodontic surgery for more complex cases involving teeth that have already had root canal treatment. To book a consultation for endodontic surgery, call Advanced Endodontic Specialists or request an appointment online today.
Endodontic surgery Q & A
What is endodontic surgery?
Endodontic surgery serves a similar purpose to a typical root canal, but the procedure is more extensive. There are a few different techniques that our specialists may use for your treatment, but the most common form is an apicoectomy.
During an apicoectomy, our specialists carefully make an incision in the gums near the root of the tooth that needs treatment. They remove any diseased tissue from the area, as well as the tip of the tooth’s root.
They may place a small filling at the root end to seal off the canals within the tooth. They will also place stitches to close the gums at the incision.
After your apicoectomy, the bone in your jaw heals around the root of the tooth. Apicoectomy surgery can be an effective treatment option for healing complex cases.
Why do I need endodontic surgery?
There are many reasons why your case may be complex enough to warrant endodontic surgery instead of nonsurgical root canal treatment.
Possible reasons why you might need endodontic surgery include:
- Narrow or hidden canals within a tooth
- Poor healing after an initial root canal
- Root surface damage or bone damage from a tooth infection
- Root resorption
- To keep the existing dentistry intact
What happens after endodontic surgery?
After endodontic surgery at Advanced Endodontic Specialists, our specialists will provide instructions for aftercare and returning to your normal routine. Most people can go back to work relatively comfortably the next day, but you may feel some lingering soreness around the treated tooth.
For discomfort in the area after your endodontic surgery, over-the-counter pain relievers are typically sufficient, and we can recommend how to use them effectively. If your post-surgery instructions are more complex for any reason, our specialists will review them with you in advance.
To learn more about endodontic surgery and when you might need it, call Advanced Endodontic Specialists or book your appointment online today.
