Taking good care of your teeth through consistent oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing is important.
But even with the best oral care, issues can arise that require professional intervention.
Root canals and root resections are two procedures that address specific dental problems, but they are not the same.
Let's explore the differences between these two procedures.
Root Canal
A root canal is a common dental procedure that treats the infected pulp of a tooth.
The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Infection can occur due to deep cavities, trauma, or repeated dental procedures.
During a root canal, the infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. The empty space is then filled with a biocompatible material, and the tooth is sealed with a crown or filling.
This procedure helps to save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
Root Resection
A root resection, also known as an apicoectomy, is a surgical procedure that removes the tip of the tooth root.
This procedure is typically performed when there is an infection at the tip of the root that cannot be treated with a root canal alone.
During a root resection, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to access the root tip. The infected portion of the root is then removed, and the remaining root surface is smoothed.
The incision is then closed with sutures.
Key Differences
While both root canals and root resections are dental procedures that address problems with the tooth root, there are some key differences between the two:
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Purpose: A root canal treats infection within the pulp of the tooth, while a root resection removes the infected tip of the tooth root.
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Procedure: A root canal is a non-surgical procedure, while a root resection is a surgical procedure.
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Complexity: A root canal is generally less complex than a root resection.
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Recovery: Recovery from a root canal is typically faster than recovery from a root resection.
Which Procedure is Right for You?
The decision of whether a root canal or a root resection is right for you will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. Our dentists will carefully evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.
Conclusion
Root canals and root resections are valuable dental procedures that can help to save teeth and prevent the need for extraction.
If you are experiencing pain or other symptoms in a tooth, it is important to see our dentists right away to determine the cause and discuss treatment options.
Taking good care of your teeth through consistent oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing is important.