Dental Code D3333: Internal root repair of perforation defects

The dental code D3333 refers to the repair of perforation defects that are inside the root of a tooth. A root perforation occurs when a small hole develops in the root, often due to decay or during root canal treatment. Left unrepaired, it can lead to infection or eventual tooth loss.

The procedure to complete an internal root repair involves cleaning and shaping the root canal space, then sealing the perforation from inside the root. This is usually done using biocompatible filling materials like mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) that promote healing of the damaged root tissue.

An internal root repair is a restorative procedure completed to seal perforation defects that have damaged the inner root structure of a tooth. When small holes or cracks occur inside the hard tissue of a root, they can allow bacteria and fluids to enter and potentially cause infection or structural compromise, leading to tooth loss over time.

The D3333 code denotes a minimally invasive repair performed from within the root canal space. The goal is to cleanse and shape the interior, then fill the damaged area using carefully placed biocompatible materials that promote new tissue growth. This helps reinforce weakened areas and form a barrier to prevent future intrusion or spread of contamination.

An internal root repair can often save a tooth that might otherwise require extraction if the perforation were left unaddressed. It allows for natural healing from the inside out, maintaining both function and aesthetics for the patient.

Isolating the tooth from saliva using a rubber dam is essential. A small, thin sheet of latex is placed around the tooth to be treated, with a rubber ring securing it firmly in place to provide both isolation and retraction. This prevents saliva, blood, or other fluids from entering the open root canal area, keeping the field completely dry so the dentist can see the area clearly.

Locating and assessing the size of the perforation is critical. Dentists may use dental microscopes or special micro-ultrasonic tips with visual aids to precisely find the defect site within the thin root canal walls. Measurements are made to determine the perforation dimensions and whether additional damage is present.

The placement of a biocompatible filling material is then completed. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is commonly used as it encourages dentin bridge formation. Using ultra-fine hand instruments or automated placement aids, the dentist carefully condenses MTA into the perforation from the inner aspect of the root canal system.

Sealing the material in place and allowing it to set via a hydration process promotes the development of new cementum and bone-like tissue over the repair site. This strengthens and seals the area long-term.

Optionally, a dental material such as composite resin may be added to provide extra protection and support to the vulnerable repaired area.

By precisely cleansing the root canal, placing filling material into perforations to ensure new tissue growth, and sealing the repairs, an internal root repair is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to resolve defects from within and naturally heal injured tooth structure.
Prices for D3333 vary between dentists. The procedure of the internal root repair is fixed and performed identically. Therefore, it is particularly worthwhile to compare the offers via Dr. BestPrice. 

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