Endodontic therapy, also known as a root canal, has earned an undeserved reputation for being a horrible procedure that is painful and time-consuming. In truth, it is quick, easy, and the final result means that you have saved a tooth that would otherwise be lost. However, there are times when more extensive treatment is needed. A surgical root canal may be required for a variety of reasons from diagnosis to resolving a dental malady.
Patients that understand what constitutes endodontic surgery are not fearful or anxious because they know:
- It does not hurt … the dentist will use a local anesthetic to make you comfortable during your procedure. There may be mild discomfort or minor swelling following any surgery. Your dentist will prescribe or recommend the medication needed to keep you comfortable as you heal.
- There is minimal downtime … most patients are able to return to work or school the very next day.
- Tooth loss can be very costly and time-consuming… when a standard root canal fails for any reason, a surgical root canal is often the last resort in an effort to save the tooth. When the extraction is the only other viable option, informed patients opt for the treatment that will prevent the need for tooth replacement.
Why won’t standard endodontic therapy suffice?
Surgery may be needed if your dentist is unable to diagnose your symptoms using imaging. The patient may have a small fracture in the tooth or canal that is not seen on an x-ray. Surgery allows the dentist to do a more thorough investigation, and can make repairs if something is found.
A standard root canal may not be possible if the root canals are too narrow for the instruments ordinarily used to thoroughly clean out the canals. This may be due to calcium deposits narrowing the canals.
Surgery may be needed if inflammation or infection remains present in the bony area around the end of your tooth following a standard root canal.
Whenever dental surgery is required, the patient receives a thorough explanation of what is to be done and why. Our team at Westside Dental Group will always try to do what is best for the patient; and in the case of a surgical root canal, your dentist is trying to save your tooth.
Call our office today to discuss your root canal treatment!