Faq
WHAT IS ENDODONTIC SURGERY?
When inflammation or infection persists in the bony area around the end of your tooth after a root canal procedure, endodontic surgery (apicoectomy) may be performed. Infection of the apex normally occurs when dental pulp undergoes necrosis, which means it dies due to a deep decay or trauma. It may also occur as a result of incomplete root canal treatment caused by either aberrant anatomy or blocked canals. When properly performed, endodontic surgery has a high success rate.
WHAT CAUSES THE INFECTION AT THE APEX OF THE ROOT?
Toxins produced by bacteria in the pulp of the tooth cause infection. To achieve healing is therefore necessary to treat the canal in the proper way by removing the damaged dental pulp and filling the canal. Healing takes place in about 6-12 months.
WHEN IS ENDODONTIC SURGERY NECESSARY?
One of the most frequent causes for endodontic surgery is the presence of posts which can not be removed from the canal. In some cases trying to remove the posts can cause the fracture of the root, which would lead to the extraction of the tooth. In such cases, endodontic surgery can be the best option. There are other indications for surgery which must be considered before extracting a tooth which might be successfully treated. Saving a tooth is definitely a biologic advantage.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PERMORM ENDODONTIC SURGERY?
Local anesthetics are used to make the procedure comfortable. Endodontic surgery is performed in one visit –the lenghth of which is related to the type of procedure. Endodontic surgery can be performed not only on front teeth (incisors and cuspids), as often believed, but also on molars.
WHAT ARE THE STEPS OF THE PROCEDURE?
The endodontist opens the gum tissue near the tooth to see the underlying bone and to remove any inflamed or infected tissue. The very end of the root is also removed. A small filling (retrofilling) may be placed in the root to seal the end of the root canal, and a few stitches or sutures are placed in the gingiva to help the tissue heal properly
HOW DO I KNOW THE SURGERY HAS BEEN SUCCESSFUL?
If the surgery has been successful, after 6-12 months the radiotransparent area around the end of your tooth should be disappeared. The long-term prognosis for a tooth on which endodontic surgery has been performed, if the restorative procedures are properly carried out, is the same as for other teeth.
WILL THE PROCEDURE HURT?
The post-operative discomfort you might experience is similar to that of a dental extraction. Pain and swelling can be alleviated with appropriate medication. Symptoms should disappear within 2-3 days.
WHEN CAN I RETURN TO WORK?
You will be able to return to work, if not physically demanding, 4-5 hours after surgery. Sometimes one day of recovery might be necessary according to the type of surgery.