What is a Coronectomy when it’s at home?

[Jannika]

Been told about a coronectomy by my dentist but to be hinest I did not understand what they meant. They were using all these dental terms and talking about it in technical terms and I came out of the clinic none the wiser. I did say I didn’t understand but when he explained it again it still didn’t make sense at all. Could you explain it further. If I need a treatment I must understand what it is before I get it. Otherwise its not fair on me is it. I am scheduled to go back in 3 days time so its urgent that I get a response please. Thanks 4 you r time.

[Sharon]

Hello,
Thank you for your post.
It certainly is important that you know exactly what treatment you are due to be having. If you are unsure then really your dentist should not proceed until they are sure you understand. A coronectomy is a procedure that is performed on lower wisdom teeth only. This is because the lower wisdom teeth are very close to the alveolar nerve. This nerve is responsible for the feeling in the bottom jaw. Sometimes the roots are so near to this nerve that a full extraction would be too risky. Any damage to this nerve could cause an altered sensation or complete numbness. Therefore, the coronectomy is performed to remove the crown of the tooth only, leaving the roots in place. This is much safer in situations where the nerve is at risk. An X-ray will help determine whether this procedure is needed. Best of luck to you.