Endodontic Surgery in Aurora, CO

Endodontic surgery is a specialized dental procedure designed to treat persistent infections or other issues affecting the root of a tooth. Unlike a conventional root canal, which accesses the inner tooth through the crown, endodontic surgery allows direct access to the root tip and surrounding bone. The most common type of endodontic surgery is an apicoectomy (root-end resection).

At Alameda Dental, we offer endodontic surgery for patients whose teeth cannot be adequately treated with non-surgical methods. Our team, led by Dr. Casandra Barnes, evaluates each case carefully to determine if surgical intervention is the best option for saving your natural tooth.

Endodontic surgery is typically considered in the following situations: - A tooth that previously had a root canal continues to cause pain or shows signs of infection. - The root canals are blocked by calcium deposits, making retreatment through the crown difficult or impossible. - A small fracture or canal is present at the root tip that was not visible on standard X-rays. - There is persistent drainage or a cyst near the root tip that needs to be addressed.

This helps us determine whether surgery is the appropriate next step. In many cases, a non-surgical retreatment may still be possible, and we will discuss all viable options before recommending surgery.

An apicoectomy is the most frequently performed endodontic surgical procedure. Here's what you can expect during your visit at Alameda Dental: - First, we administer local anesthesia to ensure the area is completely numb. - We make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone and root tip. - Any infected or inflamed tissue around the root is carefully removed. - A few millimeters of the root tip are resected, and the end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed with a small filling. - The gum is then closed with sutures, and the area is allowed to heal.

The length of the procedure varies depending on the tooth and complexity; we will give you an estimated time after your exam. Throughout the procedure, we prioritize your comfort and explain each step so you know what is happening.

After your endodontic surgery, you can expect some mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort for the first few days. This is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or any medication we may prescribe. We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, which typically include: - Applying an ice pack to the outside of your face to reduce swelling. - Eating a soft diet for a few days. - Avoiding hard brushing or flossing near the surgical site. - Keeping the area clean as directed.

Sutures may dissolve on their own or we will remove them at a follow-up visit, usually about a week later. Most patients are able to return to their normal daily activities within a day or two. Complete healing of the underlying bone takes several months, and we will schedule a check-up to monitor your progress.

The primary benefit of endodontic surgery is that it can save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. By eliminating persistent infection and sealing the root tip, we can help you keep your natural tooth and avoid the need for a bridge or implant. Other benefits include relief from chronic pain or swelling and prevention of the infection spreading to other areas.

It is important to have realistic expectations. While endodontic surgery has a high success rate, no procedure can be fully guaranteed. Success depends on factors such as the extent of infection, the quality of the existing tooth and restoration, and your overall oral health. During your consultation, we will discuss what outcomes you can expect and review alternative treatments, such as extraction with tooth replacement, so you can make an informed decision.

The cost of endodontic surgery varies based on the tooth location, the complexity of the procedure, and whether any additional treatments are needed. At Alameda Dental, we provide a written treatment estimate before beginning any work, so you know exactly what to expect.

We accept most major dental insurance plans and will verify your benefits ahead of time. Each plan is different, so we recommend calling our office to review your specific coverage and out-of-pocket responsibility. We are happy to answer your questions and discuss payment options.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate a need for endodontic surgery — such as lingering pain in a previously treated tooth, swelling, or a bad taste in your mouth — the first step is to schedule a consultation. During your visit, Dr.

We encourage you to ask questions. Our goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and informed at every stage. To schedule your consultation, call Alameda Dental at (303) 343-7072 or request an appointment online.