Endodontic Surgery at Ballard Dental

Endodontic surgery, often a necessary step for those experiencing persistent dental issues, plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health where non-surgical procedures may not suffice. At Ballard Dental in Oxford, our dedicated team employs the latest in endodontic techniques to address a variety of complex issues that can affect the inner tooth and its surrounding structures.

Why Endodontic Surgery?

Endodontic surgery may be recommended for several reasons, particularly when conventional treatments fail to alleviate dental pain or heal infection. Key reasons include:

  • Removing Calcium Deposits: In some cases, calcium deposits can form in the canals of the tooth, making it difficult for endodontists to clean and shape the canal effectively. Surgery allows for the removal of these deposits and the preservation of the tooth.
  • Addressing Damaged Roots and Bone: Trauma or severe decay can lead to damaged roots or bone loss around the tooth. Endodontic surgery helps in diagnosing fractures or hidden canals that might not appear on X-rays, as well as treating damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone.
  • Detecting Fractures and Hidden Canals: Sometimes, tiny fractures and extra canals may not be detected by X-ray alone. Endodontic surgery provides a direct view of the entire root surface, helping to find any problematic areas that need treatment.

Advancements in Endodontic Technology

Modern technology has significantly improved the outcomes of endodontic surgeries, making them more efficient and less invasive. At Ballard Dental, we leverage the following cutting-edge technologies:

  • Digital Imaging: Advanced imaging techniques, such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), offer high-definition 3D images of the teeth and bones, allowing for precise surgery planning.
  • Ultrasonic Instruments: These tools are used to open the bone precisely and delicately, with minimal impact on the surrounding tissues, enhancing healing and recovery.
  • Operating Microscopes: Microscopes enhance visualization of complex root anatomy during surgery, ensuring that even the smallest areas are carefully examined and treated.

Common Endodontic Surgical Procedures

One of the most common procedures in endodontic surgery is the root-end resection, or apicoectomy. This procedure is typically recommended when inflammation or infection persists in the bony area around the end of your tooth after a root canal treatment. During an apicoectomy, the endodontist removes the infected part of the tooth’s root along with any infected surrounding tissue. A small filling is then placed to seal the end of the root canal, and a few stitches or sutures are used to help the tissue heal.

The Process of Endodontic Surgery

The process of endodontic surgery at Ballard Dental involves several steps to ensure the best outcomes for our patients:

  • Pre-Surgical Assessment: Detailed imaging and assessment are conducted to tailor the procedure to the specific needs of each patient.
  • Surgery: Performed under local anesthesia, the procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes depending on the complexity.
  • Post-Surgical Care: Patients will receive instructions on how to care for the surgical site to ensure optimal healing. Pain management, typically with over-the-counter pain relievers, is also discussed.

Recovery and Returning to Normal Activities

Recovery times can vary, but most patients return to their normal activities within a few days. It is common to experience some discomfort and swelling, which usually subsides within a few days with proper care and medication.

Trust Your Care to Ballard Dental

Choosing the right care for endodontic issues is crucial. At Ballard Dental, we understand the intricacies of dental health and use the latest technologies and procedures to ensure that you receive the best possible care. If you're experiencing dental pain or have been advised to consider endodontic surgery, we're here to help.

Don't hesitate to reach out and discuss how we can assist you in returning to optimal oral health. Call us today at 256-835-4777 for a consultation, and take the first step towards a healthier smile right here in Oxford.