Sometimes a non-surgical root canal is unable to save a tooth. In these cases, you may need endodontic surgery.

During surgery, your endodontist can detect very small fractures or hidden canals that x-rays, or previous treatment couldn’t find.

Why else might I need endodontic surgery?

Dentists perform endodontic surgery to remove calcium deposits in a root canal, treat damaged root surfaces, or treat damaged bone surrounding the tooth.

Are there other endodontic surgeries?

Endodontists repair an injured root or divide a tooth in half to save it. Your tooth may require a replantation, whereby the dentist extracts a tooth, treats it to prevent infection, then re-implants it.

Another common procedure is called an apicoectomy or root-end resection. Sometimes infection persists after a root canal procedure. During an apicoectomy, the dentist will open the gum tissue and remove any inflamed or infected tissue. The doctor removes the very end of the root, often filling the cavity created and adding a few sutures or stitches to speed up the healing process.

This microsurgical procedure helps the bone to heal around the root ends, preventing any further spread of infection.

Is there a lot of pain associated with endodontic surgery?

Your dentist will make you as comfortable as possible using a local anaesthetic.

During the healing process, over-the-counter pain killers can usually adequately address any slight discomfort. The dentist will recommend appropriate medication.

What alternatives do I have to endodontic surgery?

The only alternative to endodontic surgery is tooth extraction.

The dentist can replace the extracted tooth with an implant, bridge or denture. This is important as a gap or missing tooth can shift your other teeth, affecting your bite and chewing function.

When can I return to work?

Most patients can return to work the next day.

If you need endodontic surgery, or think you might, call Dentique Specialist Centre on 020 8360 0500 to book a consultation.