Dental Code D3502: Surgical exposure of root surface without apicoectomy or repair of root resorption – premolar

Dental Code D3502 refers to a specific dental procedure known as surgical exposure of the root surface without apicoectomy or repair of root resorption for premolar teeth. This code is used to identify and bill for a surgical technique that involves accessing the root surface of a premolar tooth without performing an apicoectomy (removal of the root tip) or repairing root resorption. 

Dental Code D3502 signifies a surgical procedure performed on premolar teeth to expose the root surface. It is important to note that this code specifically excludes apicoectomy (root tip removal) or repair of root resorption. The purpose of this procedure is to gain access to the root surface for further treatment, such as root planing or root surface debridement, which are commonly performed to treat gum disease or other conditions affecting the root surface.

Before proceeding with the surgical exposure of the root surface, a thorough evaluation of the patient's oral health is conducted. This may involve a comprehensive dental examination, including X-rays or other diagnostic tests, to assess the condition of the affected premolar tooth and surrounding tissues. The dentist or oral surgeon will review the patient's medical history and any existing dental conditions to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure. Local anesthesia is typically administered to ensure the patient's comfort during the procedure.

Once the patient is prepared, the dentist or oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue surrounding the affected premolar tooth. This incision allows access to the underlying root surface. The depth and length of the incision will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the extent of the surgical exposure required. Care is taken to ensure that the incision is precise and minimally invasive.

After the incision, a flap of gum tissue is gently lifted or elevated to expose the root surface adequately. The dentist or oral surgeon may use specialized instruments such as elevators and retractors to facilitate the elevation of the flap. The flap is carefully retracted to provide a clear view and access to the targeted area. The dentist may use sutures or retraction cords to hold the flap in place during the procedure.

With the root surface exposed, the dentist or oral surgeon can thoroughly examine the root for any signs of disease, such as calculus deposits or root resorption. Root resorption is a condition in which the body's natural process of breaking down and replacing root structure is accelerated or abnormal. The dentist will assess the extent of the resorption and determine if any repair is necessary, although this specific code excludes repair of root resorption.

Special instruments such as curettes and ultrasonic scalers are used to remove plaque, tartar, and other debris from the root surface through a process called root planing. Root planing involves smoothing the root surface and removing the biofilm and calculus that accumulate on it. This step aims to eliminate bacterial infection and promote the healing of the affected area. The dentist may also use antimicrobial agents or irrigation solutions to disinfect the root surface and reduce the risk of infection.

After the root surface has been adequately cleaned and treated, an antimicrobial solution may be used to irrigate the surgical site, ensuring proper disinfection. This irrigation helps in removing any remaining debris and bacteria from the area and promotes a clean environment for healing. The dentist or oral surgeon will then carefully reposition the flap of gum tissue back into its original position. The flap is sutured using dissolvable or non-dissolvable sutures to secure it in place during the initial healing phase. The choice of sutures will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the dentist's preference.

Dental Code D3502 represents a surgical exposure of the root surface without apicoectomy or repair of root resorption for premolar teeth. This procedure involves making a precise incision and elevating a flap of gum tissue to access the root surface. The root surface is thoroughly examined, cleaned, and treated to address any underlying dental conditions. Special instruments are used to remove plaque, tartar, and debris through root planing. The surgical site is then irrigated to ensure disinfection, and the flap is repositioned and sutured back into place to promote proper healing.

It is important to consult with a qualified dentist or oral surgeon to determine if you require this specific treatment and to understand the associated risks and benefits. Your dental professional will evaluate your oral health and provide you with personalized recommendations and guidance.

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