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If you’ve been told you need your wisdom teeth removed, you might be surprised to hear about a lesser-known alternative called a coronectomy. At Mazza Dental, we’re committed to providing the safest and most effective dental treatments for our patients—and sometimes, that means preserving part of the tooth instead of removing it entirely.
Coronectomy Explained
A coronectomy is a specialized dental procedure where only the crown (top portion) of a wisdom tooth is removed, while the roots are left intact. This technique is usually recommended when removing the entire tooth could put nearby nerves—especially the inferior alveolar nerve—at risk of damage.
Unlike a traditional wisdom tooth extraction, which removes the entire tooth, a coronectomy minimizes the chance of complications like numbness, tingling, or nerve injury.
When Is a Coronectomy Recommended?
Coronectomies are typically suggested for patients whose wisdom tooth roots are:
- Close to or touching a nerve, particularly in the lower jaw
- Healthy and not infected
- Not causing cysts or tumors
If your dentist identifies that a full extraction may be risky due to nerve proximity, a coronectomy could be the safer option.
Benefits of a Coronectomy
There are several advantages to choosing a coronectomy over full wisdom tooth extraction:
- Lower risk of nerve damage
- Faster recovery with fewer complications
- Less pain and swelling post-surgery
- Preserves bone structure in the jaw
At Mazza Dental, we evaluate each case individually to ensure the best outcome for your oral health and long-term comfort.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A coronectomy is a quick, outpatient procedure usually performed under IV Sedation. Your dentist will:
- Numb the area
- Carefully remove the crown of the tooth
- Leave the roots in place if they are stable and not infected
- Close the site with sutures
Recovery is generally mild, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few days. We provide complete post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing.
Comfort and Calm with IV Sedation
If the thought of dental surgery makes you anxious, you’re not alone. That’s why Mazza Dental offers IV sedation dentistry for patients undergoing procedures like coronectomy.
IV sedation (intravenous sedation) allows you to remain conscious but deeply relaxed during your treatment. You’ll feel calm, comfortable, and may not even remember the procedure at all. It’s a safe and effective option for patients who:
- Have dental anxiety or phobia
- Require complex or lengthy procedures
- Prefer a more comfortable and stress-free experience
Our team is trained in advanced sedation techniques, and we closely monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.
Adding IV sedation to your coronectomy can make the entire process feel smoother and more manageable—both mentally and physically.
Is a Coronectomy Right for You?
Only a qualified dentist can determine whether a coronectomy is the right treatment for you. At Mazza Dental, we use advanced digital imaging and CBCT scans to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and nerves, helping us make the safest, most informed treatment decisions.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing discomfort from your wisdom teeth or have been advised to consider extraction, let the experts at Mazza Dental help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn whether a coronectomy is the best choice for your smile.
📍 Located in Bethesda, MD
📞 Call us at 301-321-7950
🌐 Book an appointment here
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