Endodontic Surgery
"What is endodontic surgery?" can be answered as a dental procedure for the treatment of lesions around the root of the tooth in some cases that do not heal after primary root canal treatment. It is also known as root tip resection or apicoectomy.
In general, it is the area of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of endodontic lesions that cannot be treated with conventional root canal treatment.
The main purpose of endodontic surgery is to try to save the patient's natural tooth. In cases where this is not possible, the only alternative is tooth extraction. Under the guidance of an experienced endodontist, it is possible to prepare a prognosis for the patient's tooth and get a successful result.
How is Endodontic Surgery Performed?
Before the endodontic surgery, X-rays of the patient's teeth and jaw are taken. This step allows the dentist to view the condition of the root canal, roots, surrounding bone and tissues.
Before starting the procedure, a local anesthetic is applied to the patient's mouth to numb the area. Next, the dentist makes a small incision in the gums around the tooth. The surgeon examines the bone and removes the infected tissue.
In some cases, when necessary, the root tip may also be removed and the tip of the root canal refilled. Stitches are placed to facilitate the healing of the gums then. The bone around the root needs some time to heal.
Endodontic Surgery: Causes
The dentist may prefer to root tip resection for several different reasons. The most common reason is to try to save a tooth with an existing root canal.
Root canals are mostly long-lasting. However, sometimes things may go wrong and the tooth may not heal well. In this case, it becomes re-infected. The dentist resorts to an apicoectomy to save the tooth and avoid extraction. When the damaged tissue is removed, the tooth is saved.
In addition, endodontic surgery can be used in the removal of calcium deposits in the root canal, in the treatment of problems that are not visible on x-rays, and in the treatment of broken teeth.
Root tip resection may cause minimal pain and discomfort. It does not have a very complicated procedure. Therefore, it does not require general anesthesia. The patient can be discharged immediately after the operation and can return to daily life.
It is necessary to avoid hard foods, either very cold or hot drinks for a while after apicoectomy. Soft and creamy foods can be consumed.
Yes. When the effect of local anesthesia goes, the patient should take dental care and brush the teeth as always.
