Endodontic Surgery
Endodontic surgery, also known as apical surgery or root-end surgery, is a procedure performed to treat conditions that cannot be adequately resolved through traditional root canal therapy. It involves accessing the root tip or apex of the tooth and removing infected tissue, damaged root tips, or cysts that may be causing persistent inflammation or pain.
Common Endodontic Surgery Procedures:
- Apicoectomy: An apicoectomy is the most common type of endodontic surgery. It involves accessing the root apex through a small incision in the gum tissue. The infected or damaged portion of the root is removed, and a filling is placed to seal the root canal and prevent reinfection.
- Root-End Filling: After removing the damaged root tip during an apicoectomy, a root-end filling is placed to seal the root canal and prevent bacteria from entering.
- Hemisection or Root Amputation: In some cases where a tooth has multiple roots and only one root is affected, a hemisection or root amputation procedure may be performed to remove the affected root while preserving the rest of the tooth.
Advancements in Endodontic Surgery:
- Microscopic Endodontics: The use of dental operating microscopes allows endodontists to visualize the interior of the tooth with exceptional precision, enhancing the success rates of surgical procedures.
- Ultrasonic Instruments: Ultrasonic instruments are used during endodontic surgery to precisely remove damaged tissue and clean the root canal, minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
- Digital Imaging: Advanced imaging techniques, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), provide detailed 3D images of the tooth and surrounding structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
