Why would I need Root Canal Surgery?
Dr. Levy has sufficient experience in saving root canalled teeth which have become infected and would otherwise require extraction. Generally, a root canal is all that may be needed to save teeth with an infected nerve from extraction. Occasionally, this non-surgical procedure will not be sufficient to heal the tooth and your dentist will recommend surgery. The infection frequently damages the surrounding bone and must be cleaned out to try to save your tooth.
The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy, or root-end removal and sealing of the root. Dr. Levy uses magnified vision, to obtain the best result possible in a very fine and small surgical area.
| (Side view of infected tooth) |
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What is an Apicoectomy, or Root Surgery?
The above diagram illustrates this very delicate and precise procedure. An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose infected tooth root or roots and the surrounding infected tissue. The damaged tissue is removed along with the infected end of the root tip. A root-end filling is placed to seal the end of the root, and the gum is sutured. The bone naturally heals around the root with the infection removed. The desired result is to return your tooth to comfort and full function. Incision placement is very important in the front teeth to maintain the cosmetic value of the teeth.
Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To minimize any discomfort, an appropriate pain medication will be recommended, as well as a postoperative antibiotic.