Few people welcome the thought of surgery. However, endodontic surgery is a common, minimally invasive procedure performed on an outpatient basis. Endodontic surgery should not be painful, although patients should expect to experience some discomfort and swelling in the days that follow these endodontic procedures. Read on to learn more about endodontic surgery.
Types of Endodontic Surgeries
Endodontic surgery is most commonly performed on a previously root canal treated tooth that has developed an infection or a dental abscess near the very tip of the tooth root (apex). This is called a root-end resection, apical surgery, or apicoectomy. During an apical surgery, the very tip of the root is resected, infected tissue is removed, and a biocompatible filling is placed into the newly cleaned root-end.
Endodontic surgery may also be necessary to diagnose the source of pain, by revealing cracks or hidden canals that cannot be seen with 2D or 3D imaging. Other endodontic surgeries known as hemisection and bicuspidization are performed to remove severely damaged roots in multi-rooted teeth while leaving healthy roots intact.
Lastly, for teeth that cannot be treated with a traditional root canal, an endodontic surgery known as intentional replantation may be necessary. Intentional replantation involves extracting a tooth, cleaning and treating the tooth, then replanting it in its socket.
Ensuring Patient Comfort During Endodontic Surgery
To keep patients comfortable during endodontic surgery, a local anesthetic will be provided to completely anesthetize the area that will be treated. For patients who suffer from dental anxiety or fear, a sensitive gag reflex, special needs, or a fear of needles, additional sedation options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or conscious oral sedation may be available. Conscious oral sedation is typically provided via an oral pill that you will take approximately one hour before your surgery.
Recovering from Endodontic Surgery
It is normal to experience a bit of discomfort following an endodontic surgery. Post-surgery side effects may include swelling, sensitivity, and tenderness. Your endodontist will provide you with instructions for managing discomfort, along with detailed instructions to ensure a full, healthy recovery.
In the days immediately following endodontic surgery, you should avoid the following:
- Strenuous exercise (first 24 hours)
- Alcohol
- Smoking, vaping, smokeless tobacco
- Using a straw
- Eating spicy, acidic, crunchy, or hard foods
- Rinsing or spitting
- Brushing the teeth near the surgical site
To ensure a healthy, quick recovery from endodontic surgery, you should adhere to the following:
- Use an icepack to calm swelling
- Enjoy lukewarm or cool foods and beverages
- Take all medications exactly as prescribed
- Replace gauze as needed
- Rinse your mouth as prescribed by your endodontist
If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery from endodontic surgery, do not hesitate to contact your endodontist. You will return for a follow-up appointment about one week after your surgery for an exam and post-surgical evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Endodontic Surgery
How long does endodontic surgery take?
Most endodontic surgeries take less than 90 minutes. However, your surgical appointment may take a couple of hours, because it can take some time for anesthesia to take full effect.
Can I go back to work after endodontic surgery?
We recommend taking the rest of the day off, and returning to work the day after surgery, or when you feel better.
Schedule Endodontic Surgery in Pleasant Hill, CA
To book your endodontic surgery at Tittle Endodontics a Google 5-Star reviewed endodontic practice in Pleasant Hill, CA call 925-676-3388 or message us to request your appointment.