Our endodontist in Kirkland provides advanced endodontic surgery to treat infections and problems deep within the tooth, often as a last step to save teeth that can’t be treated with a standard root canal. This specialized procedure helps preserve your natural teeth, relieve your pain, and prevent the need for extraction. Keep reading to learn what endodontic surgery is, when it’s needed, and how it works.
What Is Endodontic Surgery?
“Endo” means inside, and “odont” means tooth. When infections or damage hide deep inside a tooth, or when traditional root canal treatments are not enough, this surgery targets the problem. It helps preserve your natural smile and avoid tooth loss. Dentists use it to save teeth that would otherwise need removal.
Also, this surgery focuses on problems inside the tooth, especially the root. It’s like a rescue mission to get rid of pain and infection while keeping your tooth intact. The endodontic surgery success rate is very high, about 90% or more. With proper care and follow-ups, most teeth remain healthy for years. Using this treatment, our endodontist in Kirkland can treat infections, remove damaged tissue, and repair bone loss.
Cost of Endodontic Surgery
The cost depends on the complexity of your case, the tooth’s location, and the type of surgery required all play a role. Another factor is whether additional treatments, such as advanced imaging or sedation, are needed. Dental insurance can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses, often covering 50% to 80% of the procedure, based on your plan. So, it’s essential to check with your provider to understand your specific benefits. Call us at (425) 827-2003 to learn about the prices according to your needs.
Endodontic Surgery vs. Root Canal
| Aspect | Root Canal | Endodontic Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Procedure | Non-surgical | Surgical |
| Purpose | Removes infected pulp, disinfects, and seals the tooth | Targets infection or damage not accessible through a root canal |
| When It’s Used | First step for treating deep tooth infection | When a root canal isn’t enough or infection returns |
| Treatment Area | Inside the tooth canal | Areas around the root tip or surrounding bone |
| Complexity | Standard dental procedure | Requires small incisions and specialized precision |
| Goal | Save and protect the natural tooth | Save the tooth when traditional treatment fails |
Types
Apicoectomy
It is the most common type which is a cleanup specialist. When an infection hides at the very tip of your tooth’s root, a root canal might not reach it. An apicoectomy swoops in to remove that infected tip, clean the area, and seal it by using surgical microscopes, ultrasonic instruments, and small scalpels. It’s precise, effective, and often the last step before tooth extraction, which allows precise removal of the infected root tip.
Root Repair
If cracks or holes appear, the structure becomes weak. Root repair fixes these issues, restoring the strength and function of your tooth. Fine dental files, composite materials, and bonding tools are applied to fix cracks or holes in the root. This process keeps your natural tooth intact and avoids more invasive procedures.
Root End Resection
Sometimes, the end of a tooth’s root becomes so damaged that it needs to go. A root end resection removes the damaged portion by using high-precision instruments like surgical curettes and dental drills to ensure the rest of the root and tooth remain healthy. Think of it as trimming a plant to help it thrive.
Endodontic Surgery Recovery
Recovery varies based on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing rates:
- Swelling and tenderness (initial healing) typically subside within 2 to 5 days.
- If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they are usually removed after 7 to 10 days.
- Most patients heal completely within 2 to 4 weeks, though minor tenderness may persist for a bit longer.
What to Expect After the Surgery?
After your surgery, your body begins healing immediately. Here’s what you can expect:
- The area around the surgery site may feel sore or tender. This typically lasts a few days.
- Some swelling in the gums and nearby tissue is common and should subside within a week.
- Mild discomfort can commonly be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy items for a few days.
- If stitches are used, they may dissolve or be removed during a follow-up visit.
Endodontist Surgery in Kirkland, WA
There are no more dental root problems when you reach out to Kirkland Dental Excellence and use our endodontic treatments. If tooth pain or infections keep returning, it’s time to take action. Our endodontist in Kirkland give you the best treatment. So, schedule your FREE appointment today.
FAQs
You may need it to fix a failed root canal, treat deep infections, or repair damaged roots.
An apicoectomy is the most common. It removes the tip of the root to eliminate infection.
The procedure normally lasts 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the case.
The risks are minimal but can include infection, swelling, or delayed healing.
Endodontists may cost more due to their advanced training and specialized care, but their expertise can save your tooth and prevent future expenses.
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