Sometimes a nonsurgical dental procedure might not be enough to save your teeth, and the endodontist will advise you to undergo surgery. Endodontic surgery locates hidden canals or small fractures that cannot be detected by X-rays. Endodontic surgeries can also be used to treat damaged root surfaces, get rid of calcium deposits in root canals, and treat bone surrounding a tooth. Fortunately, technology has made it easy for endodontists to perform endodontic surgeries quickly, comfortably, and successfully. Besides, your endodontist will use local anesthesia before operating on your teeth or gum tissue.
Several people are not conversant with endodontic surgeries. If you are one of them, read on to learn about such operations. You shouldn’t be worried about the surgery.
Does the procedure hurt?
Most patients usually avoid endodontic surgery because they are afraid of pain. Almost every endodontist has had to deal with patients who are fearful of pain during and after the surgery. The truth is that endodontists use local anesthesia to make the procedure comfortable and painless. You might experience low levels of discomfort and swelling, just like other dental procedures, but your endodontist in Littleton will recommend appropriate pain medication.
When can I return to normal activities?
Most people resume their regular duties the next day after the endodontic surgery. However, you should discuss with the endodontist to get recommendations on the right time to resume daily activities, based on the nature of your work. The bottom line is that it doesn’t take long for you to continue normal activities.
Are there types of endodontic surgery?
Endodontists perform an array of endodontic surgeries based on the condition they are addressing. You need to speak with your dental specialist to determine the operation that best suits your dental concern. Some of the common endodontic surgeries include repairing injured roots, removing one or more roots, and dividing teeth into halves. All operations are designed to save your tooth.
How do I prepare for the surgery?
Your endodontist will advise you to arrive for the surgery a few minutes before so that you have enough time to fill up the paperwork and get ready for the procedure. You should also bring your X-rays or referral slips from your general dentist. Patients are also advised to eat before the surgery so that they can respond better during the treatment.
How do I know the surgery was successful?
Endodontists recommend endodontic surgery because they believe that it is the most suitable procedure for your dental concern. The dental specialist will discuss with you the chances of success to make sure that you make an informed decision. The success rate for endodontic surgeries is 99 percent.
What are the alternatives to endodontic surgery?
The best alternative to endodontic surgery is tooth extraction. That means that you have to replace the tooth with a dental implant or bridge. The other options also require surgery on the adjacent healthy teeth. However, endodontic surgery is the most preferred option.
Now that most of your questions have been answered, you can comfortably undergo endodontic surgery. The payoff for undergoing surgery is healthy and functional teeth. You can tell your endodontist about other concerns that you might have.
