Endodontic Microsurgery Specialist

What is endodontic microsurgery?

When nonsurgical endodontic treatments alone can’t fully treat a tooth with infected or damaged pulp, endodontic microsurgery may be the answer. 

The most common form of endodontic microsurgery is a root-end resection or apicoectomy. During this procedure, the endodontist makes a small incision near the gumline and temporarily moves the gum tissue to gain access to the inflamed or infected area. 

Then, the endodontist removes the tip of the root, cleans the space with an ultrasonic instrument, and places a root-end filling to seal the canal. Lastly, the gum is stitched back together to promote healing. Over a period of time, the bone heals around the end of the root.

Why would I need endodontic microsurgery?

There are a number of reasons endodontic microsurgery may be recommended. For patients who experience persistent symptoms without any problems appearing on an X-Ray, surgery may serve as the only way an endodontist can find a tiny fracture or canal that doesn’t appear through nonsurgical treatment.

Sometimes calcium deposits can make a canal too narrow to clean out an infection using nonsurgical utensils. If a canal can’t be thoroughly cleaned, the infection will return. Endodontic microsurgery may clean and seal the remainder of the inaccessible canal.

Additionally, damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may require endodontic microsurgery to stop infections and restore what’s left of a tooth.

What are the alternatives to endodontic microsurgery?

Typically, when your physician recommends endodontic microsurgery, there are few nonsurgical options. The last resort beyond surgery is extracting the tooth. 

The extracted tooth then needs to be replaced with a bridge, implant, or removable partial denture. All of these options require surgery or dental procedures on the adjacent healthy teeth, which can be more costly and invasive than endodontic microsurgery to restore your original tooth. 

Despite the fact that modern tooth replacements are effective options, there is no option as good as your original tooth. Investing in saving your tooth is always the best choice. 

If you’re experiencing recurring pain and inflammation on a tooth or teeth that have already received treatment, you may need endodontic microsurgery. Meeting with an experienced and conservative endodontist to determine the best course of action can save you years of costly treatments down the line. 

Schedule an appointment with the team at Endodontic Partners of West Alabama today, and find out your best options for a full and pain-free smile.