ENDODONTIC SURGERY IN PEORIA, AZ

7 Signs You Need Endodontic Surgery

Endodontic surgery can give patients a second chance to save teeth that have been affected by infection or damage. There are various signs that people should be aware of, indicating the need for endodontic surgery. If you notice any of these signs, do not hesitate to schedule a dental examination to determine the extent of damage and cause of discomfort.
Endodontic surgery is available at Thunderbird Dental Studio in Peoria and the surrounding area. Our team can help.

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digital simulation of endodontic treatment

Importance of Endodontic Surgery

Endodontic surgery can save a tooth in a variety of situations. It is often the last resort to save a tooth with problems associated with a root canal or when root canal therapy is not enough to save a tooth. Surgery prevents the need for tooth extraction, allowing patients to retain their natural smiles.

While many people experience fear at the thought of surgery, the notion that endodontic surgery is scary and painful is mistaken. Technological advancements and new techniques help patients remain safe and comfortable during their procedures. Many patients have endodontic surgery to remove discomfort as treatment clears any infection and repairs damage.

Pain

Undergoing professional dental cleaning removes leftover food and debris from tight spaces of the mouth. While this debris can be uncomfortable, the discomfort should disappear following the professional cleaning. If pain persists after the procedure, it could be a sign of tooth infection or decay that may require endodontic surgery.

Sensitivity

Although it is normal to experience some sensitivity when consuming hot or cold drinks or food, persistent pain can indicate a more significant problem. Pain that continues even after eating or drinking may be due to weak enamel or an infection inside the tooth. The latter problem may require endodontic surgery to repair the damage.

Swollen gums and or gums with drainage around a painful tooth are a sign of infection. Patients who experience swelling and drainage of gums should seek treatment as quickly as possible. Without treatment, the infected area can grow and threaten a patient’s oral health and necessitate endodontic surgery.
Abnormal discoloration of a specific tooth root is one of the first signs of an infected or dying tooth. When a tooth is infected, its tissues turn dark brown and cause the tooth to appear more brown or yellow. Endodontic surgery is necessary to extract the darkened tooth tissue and helps restore the tooth’s appearance.

Are there any alternatives to endodontic surgery?
Usually, the only alternative to endodontic surgery is tooth extraction. Patients that undergo tooth extraction must replace the tooth with a dental bridge, implant, or partial denture to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting and restore normal chewing function. It is best to save a tooth whenever possible as nothing looks, feels, or functions like a natural tooth.
Is endodontic surgery painful?
Local anesthetics will help numb the treatment area to help patients remain comfortable during the procedure. After the surgery, it is normal to experience some discomfort and swelling at the incision site. Patients can manage any pain with over-the-counter pain medication.
When can I resume my normal activities?
Most patients can resume their normal activities the day after surgery. Patients should refrain from doing any strenuous activities for the rest of the day after the procedure as it can cause increased swelling and bleeding. We also recommend that patients avoid exercising for three to four days following endodontic surgery.
What will happen if I need endodontic surgery but do not receive it?
If a patient fails to receive endodontic surgery to repair a tooth, their discomfort will persist and worsen over time. The disease will spread and can cause severe health problems if it spreads throughout the body. Avoiding surgery can also cause the nerves in the teeth to die. Eventually, the only option will be tooth extraction.
What are the types of endodontic surgery?
There are various types of endodontic surgery that can save a tooth. An apicoectomy is the most common endodontic surgical procedure. Other surgeries include intentional replantation, root end amputation, dividing a tooth in half, and repairing an injured root.