Why endodontic surgery may be recommended
Most endodontic problems are treated through the crown of the tooth, without surgery. In some cases, however, symptoms or inflammation persist even after root canal treatment.
Surgery may allow Dr. Moore to examine the root directly, identify a small fracture or hidden anatomy, remove tissue that has not healed, or treat a damaged root surface and the surrounding bone. The most common procedure is an apicoectomy, also called a root-end resection.
What happens during an apicoectomy
After the area is numbed, a small opening is made in the gum near the tooth. The underlying bone and inflamed or infected tissue are accessed, and the very end of the root is removed. A small filling may be placed at the root end to seal the canal, and sutures are used to help the gum tissue heal.
Over the following months, the bone around the root end can heal. Follow-up visits and imaging help the office monitor that process.
After surgery
Some tenderness, bruising, or swelling can occur while the area heals. Follow the written instructions provided by the office, take recommended medication as directed, and avoid disturbing the surgical area. Call KC Endodontics if discomfort is not controlled, swelling is increasing, or you have a concern about healing.
Surgery is considered only after the tooth, previous treatment, and long-term restorative outlook have been evaluated carefully.