A tooth infection cannot always be eradicated through non-surgical procedures. If the root canal procedure does not eliminate the pain and the discomfort, endodontic surgery may be required from a dental clinic in Dubai (if you are a resident of Dubai). The most common surgery for root canal procedures is apicoectomy. Below we outline the procedure and its requirements to give you a better idea of what you may need in case things don’t go as planned.
What is an Apicoectomy?
Apicoectomy is a surgical procedure where the endodontist opens the gum to remove any infected or inflamed tissue. During the procedure, the root is also removed entirely. After the removal, a small filling is set in place to seal the end of the root. In addition, the endodontist installs a few sutures in the gingiva to allow proper healing. The recuperation period lasts a couple of months during which the bone heals, sealing the end of the root.
Why you may need endodontic surgery?
There are many reasons why you may need to have the endodontic surgery. But most commonly, it is advised for the following:
- Surgery could be used as a part of an overall diagnosis. In some cases, where symptoms like pain and discomfort aren’t fully eradicated, a dental surgeon may need to open the gum tissue to examine the root and detect underlying issues. Some dental complexities are hard to detect through X-rays, which is why endodontic surgery becomes crucial.
- In a very rare case, there’s a chance of calcification which makes it hard for the dental surgeon to reach the root. Endodontic surgery becomes necessary here; the endodontic surgeon cleans and seals the canal removing excess deposits of calcium.
- Root canal treatments usually last a lifetime if they are successful. In some cases, the root can become infected after months or even years of surgery. Endodontic treatment is then required to clear the infected root and seal the canal so it remains symptom-free for the coming years.
- Apicoectomy is performed in many situations where the bone or the surrounding tissue becomes inflamed or infected. Most endodontic surgeons advise the procedure to save the tooth. In most cases, further surgery is not required after apicoectomy is performed.
Before and after the surgery
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, so during the surgery, there is no significant pain. However, patients experience swelling and discomfort until the incision area heal. If you go through it, your endodontist surgeon will provide postoperative guidelines to ensure that you know what to eat and what to avoid during the recuperation period.
Often, you will be able to drive yourself home after the procedure, but it is advised that you request company. You will be able to go back to your routine activities in a day or two.
There is usually no further treatment required after the endodontic surgery. Your endodontic surgeon prescribed the procedure because he believed it will eliminate all the symptoms that were becoming a hindrance in your day-to-day productivity. So, after the treatment, you will most likely go back to your normal routine. However, you will be advised to take care of your oral health through proper oral hygiene practices.
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