Sometimes a tooth needs more than a traditional root canal to fully heal. If you are experiencing persistent pain or have been told that further treatment is necessary, root canal surgery may be the solution. At Northeast Pennsylvania Endodontics, Dr. Joseph N. Legg, DMD, provides advanced endodontic microsurgery right here in Scranton, bringing the kind of precision and technology you would expect from a major university practice to our region.

What Is Root Canal Surgery?

A standard root canal resolves most cases of damaged or infected pulp, but in some situations, non-surgical treatment is not enough to fully heal the tooth. Root canal surgery is recommended when symptoms persist, when fractures or hidden canals cannot be detected on X-rays, or when damaged root surfaces and surrounding bone require direct treatment.

The most common form of root canal surgery is an apicoectomy, also called a root-end resection. During this procedure, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and any inflamed tissue beneath it. The damaged tissue is removed along with the very tip of the root. A root-end filling is then placed to seal the canal and prevent reinfection, and the gum is carefully sutured. Over the following months, the bone heals naturally around the root, restoring full function.

What to Expect After Root Canal Surgery

Following your procedure, some mild discomfort and slight swelling near the incision site is completely normal and expected. Dr. Legg will recommend appropriate pain medication to keep you comfortable during healing. If you experience pain that does not respond to medication, please contact our office right away. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable recovery is.

The Advantages of Root Canal Surgery With Dr. Legg

• Microscope-guided precision on every case. Dr. Legg is the only endodontist in the region who uses a surgical microscope on every single procedure, including root canal surgery, for unmatched accuracy.
• The region's only endodontic laser. Laser technology allows for more precise tissue management and can support faster, more comfortable healing.
• CBCT imaging for complete diagnosis. Our cone beam CT scanner reveals hidden canals, fractures, and bone anatomy that standard X-rays miss, helping Dr. Legg plan your surgery with total confidence.
• Advanced microsurgery capabilities. Dr. Legg performs some of the most complex endodontic procedures available, including molar apicoectomies that many other offices refer out entirely.
• A calm, patient-centered environment. From your first consultation through recovery, our Scranton team takes time to explain every step so you feel informed, not anxious.