Endodontic surgery, also known as root canal surgery, is performed by an endodontist to treat issues related to the innermost part of a tooth, known as the pulp. While root canal therapy is usually sufficient to treat many cases, some may require surgery to address persistent pain, infection, or other complications.

Not many patients know the common signs that indicate they may need endodontic surgery to address the problem effectively. At St. Helena Dental Studio, our team of experienced endodontists is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help you maintain optimal oral health. Whether you need surgery or not, clear your confusion by calling us.

Tooth Replacement St Helena

Top 7 Signs Indicating Endodontic Surgery is Necessary

Here are seven common signs that indicate you may need endodontic surgery:

Persistent Pain: If you are experiencing constant pain not alleviated by over-the-counter pain medication, you may need endodontic surgery. This pain may be sharp or dull and accompanied by swelling and tenderness.

Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: If you experience severe sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lasts longer than a few seconds, it may be a sign of damage to the pulp that requires endodontic surgery.

Gum Swelling or Tenderness: Swelling or tenderness in the gums around a specific tooth may indicate that the pulp is infected and requires surgery to remove the infection.

Tooth Discoloration: If a tooth becomes discolored and appears darker than surrounding teeth, it may be a sign of damage to the pulp that requires endodontic surgery.

Recurring Infections: If you have had multiple root canals on the same tooth or if you have had a root canal but continue to experience recurring infections, endodontic surgery may be necessary to address the underlying issue.

Cracked or Broken Tooth: If a tooth is cracked or broken, it may require endodontic surgery to remove damaged tissue and prevent further damage to the tooth.

Loose Tooth: If a tooth becomes loose, it may be a sign of damage to the surrounding bone and tissue that requires endodontic surgery at our office.

Who are Eligible Candidates for All-on-4 Implants?

Wearing these dental implants may be a suitable option for individuals who:

  • Have experienced extensive tooth loss or severe periodontal disease
  • Are unable to wear traditional dentures due to discomfort, slipping, or difficulty speaking and eating
  • Have significant bone loss in their jaw, which may make conventional dental implant placement difficult
  • Want a permanent solution for tooth replacement
  • Have good overall health and do not have any medical conditions that could affect the success of the procedure, such as uncontrolled diabetes or a weakened immune system

All-on-4® Versus Dentures

There are several ways in which All-on-4® implants are better than dentures. Patients take care of All-on-4® implants in the same way they care for their natural teeth by brushing each day. The implants also operate in the same way as natural teeth, so the patient does not have to be cautious of what he or she eats. Along with the fact that patients do not have to remove All-on-4® implants when eating or cleaning the teeth, there is also no need for uncomfortable wires or brackets to hold the implants in place. Even more importantly for patients, the dental implants allow anyone to eat what the heart desires. You do not have to worry about hot or cold affecting your dentures. You also can bite down with up to 70 percent more force, which allows you to eat the foods that you love. Finally, All-on-4® implants look exactly like your natural teeth. No one will be able to tell that you are wearing a dental prosthetic. From a dental health perspective, it is important to note that when you have All-on-4® implants, it is going to prevent bone deterioration in the jawbone and ultimately restore your facial features by fighting resorption. The process of resorption involves the implants stimulating the jaw to send a message to the body that the jaw is supporting teeth once again. Resorption will help the jawbone to regain some of the mass that it has lost previously. Many of our patients who visit our office notice a difference in their facial structure as a result.

Book an Appointment with Us for Endodontic Surgery in St. Helena

Do not hesitate to visit St. Helena Dental Studio to determine the extent and cause of dental pain or discomfort. We recommend looking for 7 signs you need endodontic surgery or discussing your issues with us. Schedule a consultation with our skilled endodontists to determine if endodontic surgery is the best option for you. Our endodontists look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile. Call us!
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The Process of Getting All-on-4® at St. Helena Dental Studio

Typically, the surgery takes approximately two hours and 30 minutes per arch. We can install your All-on-4® implants on your upper, lower, or both arches at the same time. While a dentist may make the process look easy, the surgery is a complex procedure that we can complete at an efficient pace. The process of getting All-on-4® implants can be laid out in four steps:
01.
A detailed examination where we will look at your records, existing conditions, whether you have a denture, what your facial structure needs are, and any other factors that may come into play when placing your implants.
02.
Typically involves CT scans, which are 3D pictures, of the jawbone. The scans include the positions of the replacement teeth, while also giving us critical information about where the bone sinuses and nerves are located for the implants.
03.
Involves creating a computer simulation of the implants, which we digitally position into the jawbone at the appropriate location to give you the most support from your replacement teeth. We can adjust the implants as need be and fabricate your new set of teeth for your needs.
04.
Finally, the most important step is the oral surgery. During surgery, we will provide you with anesthesia and then place the implants directly into your jawbone to secure your new set of teeth in place.