When a tooth develops a dental infection, treatment is needed and can be provided with a simple root canal. But what if the infection is more complex? If this occurs in the tips of the roots, we could instead recommend a surgical procedure known as an apicectomy. In today’s blog, your Londonderry, NH, dentist talks about endodontic surgery.
When an Infection is Too Complex for a Root Canal
A tooth becomes infected when the collection of tissues at the center of it, referred to as the pulp, is exposed to harmful oral bacteria. The pulp oversees the flow of key nutrients and blood to and from the tooth, keeping it functional and healthy. But when exposed to bacteria, the tooth could become infected and without treatment, essentially die and require extraction. Typically, we conduct a root canal to open the tooth, remove the tissues from within, and provide a special filling in place of the inner tissues. We then cap it with a crown. But! In some cases, the infection is not in the interior of the tooth, but at the tip of the root canals. When this occurs, an apicectomy, or root-end resection, may be needed.
Planning the Surgery
To begin, we will gather detailed digital x-rays of the tooth so we can pinpoint the exact position of the infected portions, and then plan treatment in detail to address it. These images can be gathered quickly without the need of bitewings or a lengthy development time, instead we send them instantly to a chairside monitor, and move forward with treatment planning. To keep you comfortable during the surgery itself, our team will offer a local anesthesia to the area being treated, and we can also have sedation to help you enter a deep state of calm, with no memory of the procedure. Even if you have dental anxiety, this can ensure a comfortable procedure.
The Root-End Resection
Our team will make an incision to expose the infected root portion. We then remove the tip so we can extract the infected tissues and then add a medicated material, before we cap the root again. This addresses the infection at the site. We then suture the area closed. The surgery protects you from major discomfort and the risk of tooth loss. If you have any questions about our approach to root canal surgery, or if you want to schedule a visit now before the year ends, then contact our team today to learn more.
Schedule An Appointment with Our Team for Relief!
Our team wants to help you enjoy good oral health and a complete smile. You can schedule an appointment with the team at My Dentist in Londonderry, NH, today by calling 603-965-3407.
