Coronectomy in La Verne, CA
A Safer Alternative for High-Risk Wisdom Tooth Removal
If your lower wisdom teeth are located near the inferior alveolar nerve, traditional extraction may pose a higher risk of nerve damage. In these cases, a coronectomy may be the best solution. At Pearl Dental Group, we offer coronectomy procedures for patients in La Verne, Claremont, and San Dimas as part of our advanced oral surgery care.
Coronectomy allows us to remove the crown (top portion) of the wisdom tooth while leaving the roots undisturbed, reducing the chance of complications and preserving nerve function.
What Is a Coronectomy?
A coronectomy is a surgical procedure that removes only the crown of an impacted lower wisdom tooth, leaving the roots in place when they’re too close to the mandibular nerve. This approach prevents the tooth from causing pain or infection while avoiding nerve damage that could lead to numbness or tingling in the jaw, lip, or tongue.
Why choose a coronectomy instead of full extraction?
- Reduces risk of nerve injury (especially in high-risk root positions)
- Eliminates future issues caused by impacted wisdom teeth
- Minimally invasive compared to full root removal
We typically recommend coronectomy only in specific cases based on X-ray and CBCT imaging.
When Is Coronectomy Recommended?
We may recommend a coronectomy if:
- The roots of the wisdom tooth are close to or wrapped around the inferior alveolar nerve
- A full wisdom tooth extraction carries a high risk of nerve damage
- There is no infection, cyst, or decay in the root area
- The patient prefers a nerve-sparing approach for long-term safety
We'll carefully assess your X-rays and 3D imaging to determine whether a coronectomy is a safe and appropriate treatment.
What to Expect During a Coronectomy
- Consultation & Diagnostic Imaging
We’ll take digital scans to assess the location of the tooth and its proximity to critical nerves. - Surgical Procedure
Under local anesthesia or sedation, we gently remove only the crown of the tooth. The roots are left intact but sealed off to reduce the risk of infection. - Healing & Monitoring
Most patients heal quickly and experience fewer side effects than with full extraction. We’ll monitor healing and ensure the roots remain stable.
If root migration occurs later, a second procedure may be considered, but this is rare.
FAQs About Restorative Dentistry
1. Is restorative dentistry the same as cosmetic dentistry?
Not quite — restorative dentistry focuses on rebuilding damaged or missing teeth, though it often improves aesthetics too.
2. How long do crowns, bridges, and implants last?
With proper care, many restorations can last 10–20 years or more. Implants often last a lifetime.
3. What if I’ve lost a lot of bone or teeth?
We offer bone grafting, All-on-Fours, and full reconstruction solutions for even the most complex cases.
4. Are dental implants painful?
Implant placement is performed under local anesthesia and can include sedation for added comfort. Most patients report minimal discomfort.
5. Will insurance cover restorative treatments?
Many procedures are covered partially or fully by dental insurance. We’ll help you maximize benefits and offer financing options when needed.
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Rebuild Your Smile with Confidence
Whether you're missing a tooth, struggling with old restorations, or dealing with worn or damaged enamel, Pearl Dental Group offers comprehensive restorative dentistry solutions to bring your smile — and oral health — back to life. We serve patients in La Verne, Claremont, and San Dimas with personalized, durable, and natural-looking dental restorations designed for long-term function and aesthetics.
From simple repairs to full-mouth rehabilitation, our restorative team is here to help you eat, speak, and smile with total confidence again.
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