Endodontic Surgery: Preserving Your Natural Tooth

You’re likely reading this because your dentist or endodontist believes that endodontic surgery may help save your tooth. Understanding the procedure starts with knowing about nonsurgical root canal treatment.

A root canal is performed when the soft inner tissue (pulp) of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to:

• Deep decay
• Repeated dental procedures
• Trauma or a blow to the tooth

During a root canal, the damaged pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped, and then filled to preserve the tooth. However, in some cases, nonsurgical treatment alone cannot save the tooth, and endodontic surgery may be recommended.

Why Might I Need Endodontic Surgery?

Endodontic surgery may be necessary in several situations:

1. Diagnosis of Hidden Issues
   If symptoms persist but X-rays show no problems, surgery allows the endodontist to inspect the root for hidden fractures or previously undetected canals.
2. Calcified Canals
   Sometimes, calcium deposits narrow the canals, making them inaccessible to conventional instruments. Surgery allows cleaning and sealing of the remaining canal.
3. Failed Previous Root Canal
   Although most root canal-treated teeth last a lifetime, some may fail months or years later. Surgery can help restore these teeth.
4. Treatment of Damaged Roots or Bone
   Surgery can address root damage or surrounding bone defects that cannot be treated nonsurgically.

The most common surgical procedure is called an apicoectomy, or root-end resection, performed when infection or inflammation persists at the end of a tooth after a root canal.

What Is an Apicoectomy?

During an apicoectomy:

• The endodontist opens the gum near the tooth to access the underlying bone
• Inflamed or infected tissue is removed
• The very tip of the root is excised
• A small filling, called a retrofill, may be placed to seal the root canal

• Stitches (sutures) are used to close the gum and promote healing

Over the following months, the bone around the root tip heals naturally.

Other Types of Endodontic Surgery

Other surgical procedures your endodontist might perform include:

• Repairing damaged or injured roots
• Removing one or more roots if necessary
• Intentional replantation: the tooth is extracted, treated outside the mouth, and replaced in its socket

These procedures are designed to save your natural tooth whenever possible.

Pain Management and Recovery

Will it hurt?
Local anesthesia ensures the procedure is comfortable. Mild swelling or discomfort may occur during healing, which is normal. Your endodontist will provide pain management instructions.

Can I drive myself home?
Most patients can drive home after the procedure. Confirm with your endodontist if sedation is used.

When can I resume normal activities?
Most patients return to work or routine activities the next day. Recovery times may vary depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Success of Endodontic Surgery

No surgical procedure can guarantee results, but your endodontist recommends surgery because it offers the best chance of saving your tooth. Success depends on factors like:

• Extent of infection or damage
• Overall tooth and bone health
• Patient’s general health and healing ability

Alternatives to Endodontic Surgery

If surgery is not feasible or unsuccessful, the only alternative may be tooth extraction. Missing teeth can:

• Affect bite and chewing
• Cause other teeth to shift
• Impact appearance and self-confidence

When a tooth must be removed, dental implants or other replacements can restore function and aesthetics. However, nothing replaces the value of your natural tooth—surgery gives you a chance to maintain a healthy, functioning tooth for life.

Why Choose AbuMaizar Dental Center

At AbuMaizar Dental Center in Amman, Dr. Hasan AbuMaizar combines advanced techniques, precision, and patient-focused care to perform endodontic surgery with high success rates and minimal discomfort. Every treatment is tailored to ensure long-term tooth preservation.

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