endodontic surgery

Or Call to Schedule

(310) 278-5403

endodontic surgery

Or Call to Schedule

(310) 278-5403

endodontic surgery for beverly hills patients

the qualified endodontists that los angeles county patients trust

Occasionally a dental infection in the roots of your tooth can be treated directly through the gums, physically removing the infection at the source. This procedure is reserved for teeth that do not respond to traditional conservative endodontic treatment such as root canals. The experienced team at Martin Endodontics can provide you with the endodontic surgery you need in a stress-free and comfortable environment to restore your oral health.

What to Expect

1

consult

The consultation will include 3D imaging, evaluation for risk factors (like tooth cracks), and discussion of possible prescriptions for before and after treatment based on medical history and dental anxiety level.

2

treatment

We will numb the area that is going to be treated and then get to work clearing any infection and properly resealing your tooth while you relax with a blanket, headphones, and sometimes sedation methods.

3

after care

After the numbness wears off, some soreness is normal. Following your customized post-op medication instructions is important to help prevent pain and swelling. Take your medication for as long as instructed.

4

follow up

A final 6-month follow-up appointment with imaging is required. We thoroughly evaluate how the roots and surrounding jaw bone are responding to the endodontic treatment.

Understanding Endodontic Surgery

Endodontic surgery, also known as apical surgery or root-end surgery, is a surgical procedure performed on the root tip (apex) of a tooth. It is typically recommended when there are persistent symptoms or complications related to the root canal system that cannot be effectively resolved through non-surgical treatments. While a root canal involves removing infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, endodontic surgery involves addressing problems outside the tooth's root, such as infections or damaged tissues in the surrounding bone. It is considered a more invasive procedure than a root canal but can provide a viable solution for saving a tooth that would otherwise require extraction.

When Is Endodontic Surgery Used?

There are specific circumstances under which endodontic surgery will be used, including in instances where there are:

Persistent Infections: In some cases, despite initial root canal treatment, the infection may persist or recur. Endodontic surgery can be employed to remove the source of the infection, such as an infected root tip or a cyst, to promote healing and prevent further complications.

Root Canal Obstructions: During a root canal procedure, it is sometimes challenging to clean and seal the entire root canal system. If obstructions, such as calcified canals or separated instruments, prevent successful root canal treatment, endodontic surgery may be necessary to remove these obstacles and complete the treatment.

Root Fractures: When a tooth has a fractured root that cannot be repaired, endodontic surgery can be used to remove the affected portion of the root, allowing for the placement of a dental restoration to save the tooth.

Resorption: Resorption is a condition where the body's natural processes cause the tooth structure to dissolve. If resorption is severe and cannot be treated through conventional root canal therapy, endodontic surgery may be performed to remove the affected tissue and preserve the remaining healthy tooth structure.

The Endodontic Surgery Process

Endodontic surgery generally involves the following steps:

Examination and Diagnosis: We will conduct a thorough examination, review your dental history, and perform any necessary diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan, to evaluate the tooth and surrounding structures.

Local Anesthesia: Before the surgery, you will be given a local anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure.

Incision and Access: Our endodontists will create a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth to access the root tip and surrounding bone.

Removal of Infected Tissue: The infected or damaged tissue, such as the root tip, cyst, or granuloma, will be carefully removed to eliminate the source of the problem, and sent out for biopsy.

Root-End Filling: Once the infected tissue is removed, an experienced endodontist will clean and shape the root-end cavity and fill it with a biocompatible material, such as dental-grade cement, to seal the root and prevent further infection.

Suturing and Healing: The gum tissue is then sutured back into place, allowing for proper healing of the surgical site.

Follow-up Care: After the procedure, we will provide instructions on post-operative care, including pain management, oral hygiene practices, and any necessary medications. Our team will also schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing process and ensure that the tooth is responding well to the surgery.

Contact Martin Endodontics For Endodontic Surgery

Endodontic surgery is a specialized dental procedure used to address complex issues associated with the root canal system that cannot be resolved through non-surgical means. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms or complications related to a previously treated root canal, it is essential to consult with the experienced endodontists at Martin Endodontics. We will evaluate your specific case, determine if endodontic surgery is the right course of action, and guide you through the process to ensure the best possible outcome. Contact us online or by phone to schedule your appointment today for exceptional, pain-free endodontic care.

For more information about endodontic surgery or to schedule a consultation, call us at (310) 278-5403 or visit our contact page.