Will the procedure hurt?
Local anesthetics make the procedure reasonably comfortable. Of course, you may feel some discomfort or experience slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. Your endodontist will recommend appropriate pain medication to alleviate your discomfort.
Your endodontist will give you specific post-operative instructions to follow. If you have questions after your procedure, or if you have pain that does not respond to medication, call your endodontist.
Can I drive myself home?
Often you can, but you should ask your endodontist before your appointment so that you can make transportation arrangements if necessary.
When can I return to my normal activities?
Most patients return to work or other routine activities the next day. Your endodontist will be happy to discuss your expected recovery time with you.
Does insurance cover endodontic surgery?
Each insurance plan is different. Check with your employer or insurance company prior to treatment. Endodontic offices are not involved in determining which dental services are included, the percentage of the fees covered or whether a specific service is covered at all. While we want to provide you with the highest possible quality of care, your dental insurance may cover only basic services. Valley Endodontic Specialty Group works with many insurance plans and will file the claims for you however all costs associated with the procedure, and not covered by your plan, are the responsibility of the patient.
How do I know the surgery will be successful?
Your dentist or endodontist is suggesting endodontic surgery because he or she believes it is the best option for you. Of course, there are no guarantees with any surgical procedure. Your endodontist will discuss your chances for success so that you can make an informed decision.
What are the alternatives to endodontic surgery?
Often, the only alternative to surgery is extraction of the tooth. The extracted tooth must then be replaced with an implant, bridge, or removable partial denture to restore chewing function and to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. These alternatives require surgery or dental procedures on adjacent healthy teeth. Endodontic surgery is usually the most cost-effective option for maintaining your oral health.
No matter how effective modern tooth replacements are – nothing is as good as a natural tooth. You've already made an investment in saving your tooth. The pay-off for choosing endodontic surgery could be a healthy, functioning natural tooth for the rest of your life.
FAQ's about Endodontic Treatment
FAQ's about Endodontic Retreatment
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Parts of this content are provided courtesy of the American Association of Endodontics, Copyright 1996. For more information, please link to their website at http://www.aae.org/