Endodontic Surgery Specialist

What is endodontic surgery?

Endodontic surgery is an alternative to a root canal procedure, which is a nonsurgical dental treatment to remove the inflamed or infected pulp from the inside of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue portion of the tooth and includes blood vessels and nerves, and your adult tooth can survive without it once it erupts. 

The team at Los Gatos Dental Specialists uses several endodontic surgery techniques to evaluate the canals and possible fractures within a tooth as well as treat the tooth by preventing new bacteria from entering it and causing inflammation. 

The most common type of endodontic surgery is called apicoectomy or root-end resection. During the surgery, the team at Los Gatos Dental Specialists applies local anesthesia, then makes an incision in the gums to get to the tooth’s root. They remove any inflamed or infected tissue surrounding the tooth and remove the tip of the root. 

To promote healing, the team might place a small filling in the end of the root and use sutures to close any incisions. 

When do I need endodontic surgery?

Endodontic surgery is not necessary for every inflamed or infected tooth. Your dentist will most likely recommend a root canal first if you experience symptoms like pain when biting down, pimples on the gums, and tooth sensitivity. 

As part of the planning process for a traditional root canal, you’ll need some dental X-rays.

You might need endodontic surgery later if the X-rays fail to detect features that can cause root canal complications, including:

• Small fractures
• Narrow canals in the tooth
• Calcium deposits
• Infection that spreads outside the tooth

The team at Los Gatos Dental Specialists tells you exactly why endodontic surgery is needed during your initial appointment. 

How should I prepare for endodontic surgery?

Preparing for endodontic surgery is no different than preparing for any oral surgery. First and foremost, you need to attend a consultation with the team to discuss your expectations for the procedure. The team tells you what to expect after surgery and how you should prepare leading up to the appointment. 

To prepare for endodontic surgery, you might need to:

• Take an anti-inflammatory medication before the surgery
• Thoroughly brush and floss your teeth right before the appointment
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash from your dentist immediately before the treatment
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Arrange to take the day off work

There may be additional instructions you need to follow depending on your personal health and circumstances. 

If you want to learn more about endodontic surgery and find out if you need any type, call Los Gatos Dental Specialists or book an appointment online today.