Coronectomy at Perfect Dental
A Conservative Approach for High-Risk Wisdom Teeth
When a lower wisdom tooth sits close to important nerves, full removal may increase the risk of complications. Coronectomy offers an alternative by removing only the top portion of the tooth while leaving the roots in place. This technique is used to reduce risk while still addressing the problem area. Care is available at Perfect Dental, with locations in Taunton, Methuen, Manchester NH, Hyde Park, and Attleboro.
A detailed assessment is performed with the oral surgery providers to evaluate nerve positioning and determine whether coronectomy is the safest option.
What Is a Coronectomy?
A coronectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the crown (top portion) of a tooth while leaving the roots undisturbed. It is most commonly used for impacted lower wisdom teeth located near the inferior alveolar nerve.
This procedure is designed to:
It is selected when full removal may pose unnecessary risk.
- Reduce the risk of nerve damage
- Address problematic or impacted wisdom teeth
- Preserve surrounding structures
- Provide a safer alternative to full extraction in certain cases
When a Coronectomy Is Recommended
Coronectomy may be suggested when imaging shows that the roots of a tooth are too close to critical nerves.
You may be a candidate if you:
Careful evaluation helps determine whether this approach is appropriate.
- Have impacted lower wisdom teeth
- Show signs of nerve proximity on imaging
- Want to reduce the risk of numbness or nerve injury
- Need treatment for a problematic tooth in a sensitive area
What to Expect During the Procedure
Coronectomy is performed with precision to safely remove only the necessary portion of the tooth.
The process may include:
For additional comfort, options like Sedation Dentistry may be discussed.
- Imaging to assess tooth and nerve position
- Administering local anesthesia or sedation
- Removing the crown of the tooth while preserving the roots
- Cleaning and closing the area to support healing
Recovery and Aftercare
Healing after a coronectomy is similar to other oral surgery procedures, with specific guidance to support recovery.
To promote healing:
In rare cases, the retained roots may shift over time and require further evaluation.
- Follow all post-procedure instructions carefully
- Avoid disturbing the surgical site
- Maintain oral hygiene as directed
- Attend follow-up visits to monitor healing
How Coronectomy Compares to Extraction
Coronectomy is not used in every situation but can be beneficial when specific risks are present.
Compared to full Wisdom Teeth Removal:
Your provider will explain which option best fits your condition.
- It reduces the likelihood of nerve-related complications
- It preserves part of the tooth structure
- It may require ongoing monitoring
Coverage and Treatment Considerations
Coronectomy may be partially covered by dental insurance depending on your plan and the medical necessity of the procedure. Coverage varies based on individual benefits.
Perfect Dental works with a wide range of insurance providers and helps clarify your coverage before treatment begins. To learn more, visit Patient Info.
Explore a Safer Alternative for Impacted Teeth
If you’ve been told your wisdom teeth are close to a nerve, coronectomy may be a safer option. Request your visit at a location near you:
You can also visit Contact to get started.
- Taunton — (508) 821-3100
- Methuen — (978) 965-2399
- Manchester NH — (603) 932-2377
- Hyde Park — (617) 910-4028
- Attleboro — (774) 203-3757
Common Questions
Why would a coronectomy be recommended instead of extraction?
It is used when removing the full tooth could increase the risk of nerve damage.
Is a coronectomy safe?
Yes, it is a well-established procedure used in specific high-risk cases.
Will the roots cause problems later?
In most cases, the roots remain stable, but they are monitored over time.
Does the procedure hurt?
Anesthesia or sedation is used to keep you comfortable during treatment.
Book Your Appointment
Request your visit at the Perfect Dental location that works best for you:
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