
Surgical and Endodontic Procedures
Surgical dental procedures involve operations to treat advanced conditions like severe gum disease or to remove problematic teeth, helping restore oral health by repairing damaged tissues or extracting teeth when necessary. Endodontic procedures, such as root canal therapy, focus on treating the inner pulp of the tooth to save infected or damaged teeth by removing infection and sealing the tooth. Both surgical and endodontic treatments aim to relieve pain, eliminate infection, and preserve natural teeth whenever possible, supporting overall dental health and function.
What to Expect
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Surgical Procedures: These mainly include tooth extractions and bone grafts. Extractions involve removing a damaged or problematic tooth, usually done under local anesthesia with possible sedation for comfort. Bone grafts are performed to rebuild or strengthen the jawbone, often to prepare for dental implants. After surgery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild pain, which can be managed with medication and ice packs. Healing times vary, and your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-ups to ensure proper recovery.
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Endodontic Procedures (Root Canals): During a root canal, your dentist or endodontist numbs the area, removes infected pulp inside the tooth, then cleans, disinfects, and seals it. The procedure is generally painless thanks to anesthesia, though you may feel some pressure. Mild soreness or sensitivity afterward is common but usually improves with over-the-counter pain relief. A crown or filling is often placed afterward to protect the tooth, with follow-ups to monitor healing.