Coronectomy in Caldwell and Florham Park, NJ
Protecting Your Smile From Nerve Damage
Dental health plays a crucial role in our well-being. But complex procedures are sometimes necessary to maintain it. One such procedure is coronectomy, a specialized technique in certain wisdom tooth extractions. At the NJ Center for Oral Surgery, with locations in Caldwell and Florham Park, NJ, Drs. Jacobs, Kirsch, and Levin offer this advanced treatment option for patients who need it.
Coronectomy is a surgical procedure that involves partially removing a tooth, typically a wisdom tooth while leaving the roots intact. This approach is often recommended when there’s a high risk of damaging the inferior alveolar nerve during a complete tooth extraction. The inferior alveolar nerve runs through the lower jaw and provides sensation to the lower lip and chin.
Call 973-226-8444 to schedule your appointment at our Caldwell office or 973-261-8444 for our Florham Park office.
What Is a Coronectomy?
A coronectomy, also known as a partial odontectomy, is a surgical procedure where only the crown (top part) of a tooth is removed while deliberately leaving the roots in place. This technique is primarily used for wisdom teeth in the lower jaw close to the inferior alveolar nerve.
The main goal of a coronectomy is to prevent nerve damage that could occur during a standard tooth extraction. By leaving the roots in place, the surgeon can avoid direct contact with the nerve, reducing the risk of complications such as numbness or tingling in the lower lip and chin.
When Is a Coronectomy Recommended?
Drs. Jacobs, Kirsch, and Levin at the NJ Center for Oral Surgery may recommend a coronectomy in several situations:
- High risk of nerve damage: If X-rays or CT scans show that a wisdom tooth’s roots are very close to or wrapped around the inferior alveolar nerve, a coronectomy might be the safest option.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: When wisdom teeth are trapped beneath the gum line or only partially erupted and complete removal poses a significant risk to the nerve.
- Dental decay: If a tooth has extensive decay but complete removal could damage the nerve, a coronectomy might be considered.
- Periodontal disease: In cases where severe gum disease has affected the tooth, extraction could harm the nerve.
Do you need a Coronectomy? Contact us to make an appointment today!
Caldwell
NJ Center for Oral Surgery Phone Number 973-226-8444 Florham Park
Florham Park Office (North Tower) Phone Number 973-261-8444 Book Online
The Coronectomy Procedure at NJ Center for Oral Surgery
At NJ Center for Oral Surgery, Drs. Jacobs, Kirsch, and Levin perform coronectomies with great care and precision. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Consultation and planning: Your journey begins with a thorough examination and imaging studies to determine if a coronectomy is the best option for you.
- Anesthesia: On the day of the procedure, you’ll receive appropriate anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the surgery.
- Incision: The surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
- Crown removal: Using specialized instruments, the dentist will carefully cut and remove the crown of the tooth, leaving the roots intact.
- Smoothing the roots: The exposed root surface will be smoothed to promote proper healing.
- Closure: The gum tissue will be sutured back into place over the remaining roots.
- Recovery: You’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions to help with your recovery.
Benefits of Coronectomy
Choosing a coronectomy at the NJ Center for Oral Surgery can offer several advantages:
- Reduced risk of nerve damage: By avoiding complete tooth extraction, the chance of injuring the inferior alveolar nerve is significantly lowered.
- Preservation of jaw structure: Leaving the roots in place helps maintain bone density in the jaw.
- Faster recovery: In many cases, patients experience less post-operative pain and swelling compared to a full tooth extraction.
- Lower risk of dry socket: The risk of developing a painful condition called dry socket is reduced with a coronectomy.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your coronectomy at NJ Center for Oral Surgery, Drs. Jacobs, Kirsch, and Levin will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. These typically include:
- Rest and limited activity for the first 24 to 48 hours
- Applying ice packs to reduce swelling
- Eating soft foods and avoiding the surgical site while eating
- Gentle rinsing with salt water after the first day
- Taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as directed
- Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing
Long-term Care and Monitoring
Following your coronectomy, the NJ Center for Oral Surgery team will schedule periodic check-ups to monitor the retained roots. These visits may include:
- X-rays to check the root position
- Examination of the surgical site
- Assessment of nerve function
- Discussion of any concerns or symptoms you may have
Why Choose NJ Center for Oral Surgery for Your Coronectomy?
Drs. Jacobs, Kirsch, and Levin at NJ Center for Oral Surgery bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to every coronectomy procedure they perform. With state-of-the-art facilities in Caldwell and Florham Park, NJ, they offer:
- Advanced imaging technology for precise diagnosis and treatment planning
- A patient-centered approach that prioritizes your comfort and well-being
- Extensive experience in performing coronectomies and other complex oral surgeries
- A commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in oral surgery techniques
- Convenient locations to serve patients throughout New Jersey



Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate of coronectomy?
Coronectomy has a high success rate, with studies showing success rates of 85-95%. Success is typically defined as the absence of complications and the retention of the tooth roots without causing problems.
How long does it take to recover from a coronectomy?
Most patients recover from a coronectomy within seven to 10 days. However, complete healing of the surgical site can take several weeks. It’s important to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully to promote optimal healing.
Can the remaining roots cause problems later?
In most cases, the retained roots don’t cause problems. However, there’s a small chance they could migrate upward or become infected. Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist will help monitor the roots and address any issues promptly.
Is a coronectomy more expensive than a regular tooth extraction?
Coronectomy can be more expensive than a standard tooth extraction due to its complexity and the need for specialized skills. However, the cost can vary depending on location, the specific case, and insurance coverage. It’s best to discuss the cost with your dental provider.
Explore The Best Solution For Protecting Your Smile at NJCOS
Coronectomy is a valuable surgical option for patients who need wisdom tooth removal but face a high risk of nerve damage. At NJ Center for Oral Surgery, Drs. Jacobs, Kirsch, and Levin provide this specialized procedure with skill and care, helping patients maintain oral health while minimizing potential complications.
If you’re considering wisdom tooth removal or have been told you might need a coronectomy, don’t hesitate to contact us at the NJ Center for Oral Surgery by calling our Caldwell office at 973-226-8444 or our Florham Park office at 973-261-8444. With our expertise and compassionate care, you can feel confident that you’re in good hands for this important dental procedure.
Our team in Caldwell and Florham Park is dedicated to helping you get the care you need in the surrounding Newark areas such as Morristown, Springfield, and Little Falls, NJ. We look forward to hearing from you!