Please note we may not offer this treatment at our office. Call (940) 566-4888 for more information.
A Last Resort to Save Your Tooth
An apicoectomy is a specialized endodontic surgical procedure designed to remove the tip of a tooth’s root and surrounding inflamed or infected tissue, allowing your endodontist to clean and seal the root canal. It’s typically recommended when a traditional root canal treatment has failed or when reinfection occurs. This procedure can save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction.
If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, please contact our Denton, TX, dentists by calling our office at (940) 566-4888.
What Is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is an endodontic surgery performed to treat a tooth that has previously undergone a root canal treatment but failed to heal. It’s also known as a root-end resection or root-end surgery.
During a conventional root canal treatment, the dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth’s canal, cleans it, and fills it with a material to prevent further infection. Sometimes the tooth doesn’t heal properly, and infection persists. In such cases, an apicoectomy may be recommended to remove the infection and prevent it from spreading further.
Benefits of Apicoectomy
There are several benefits to having an apicoectomy performed, including:
- Saving the Natural Tooth: An apicoectomy allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is always the best option for your overall oral health.
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional surgery, an apicoectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that requires only a small incision in the gum tissue.
- High Success Rate: With proper care and maintenance, an apicoectomy has a high success rate of over 90 percent.
- Short Recovery Time: The recovery process for an apicoectomy is usually quick and easy, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a few days of the procedure.
Why Apicoectomy May Be Necessary
Patients who have undergone a previous root canal but still experience persistent pain, infection, or abscess may benefit from an apicoectomy. It’s often recommended for:
- Calcified canals that are difficult to treat with conventional root canal therapy
- Persistent infections despite earlier root canal treatments
- Complicated anatomy, such as curved or narrow root canals
- Proximity to important structures, such as nerves, sinuses, or surrounding bone, where standard root canal treatment could increase the risk of damage
In cases where the tooth is near delicate structures, an apicoectomy can provide more precise control and prevent unnecessary trauma to these areas.
The Apicoectomy Process
An apicoectomy is usually performed using a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around the affected tooth. Dental sedation can also help the patient relax during the procedure.
The apicoectomy procedure typically takes about 30 to 90 minutes to complete, depending on the case’s complexity. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- Your endodontist will make a small incision in the gum tissue near the tooth to access the root tip.
- They’ll then use specialized instruments to remove the infected or damaged tissue and clean the root tip.
- Once the root tip is cleaned, your endodontist will fill it with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection.
- The gum tissue will be sutured back in place to promote healing.
After the procedure, you’ll receive instructions for post-operative care. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
Advanced Apicoectomy Techniques
Modern apicoectomies use cutting-edge technology, including microscopes, fiber optic lights, and ultrasonic instruments, to improve precision and outcomes. These advances make the procedure minimally invasive, helping you recover faster and reducing the risk of complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
The recovery process typically takes a few days to a week. This timeline depends on the individual’s health and the complexity of the surgical procedure.
No, apicoectomies aren’t painful. Most patients experience some pain and discomfort after the procedure, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medication.
Most dental insurance plans cover apicoectomy as a necessary procedure to treat a failed root canal treatment. Contact your insurance provider to learn if your plan covers apicoectomies.
Not necessarily. An apicoectomy is usually recommended as a last resort when other treatment options, including root canal treatment, have failed to heal the tooth properly. Your endodontist will determine if an apicoectomy is necessary in your particular case.
Discover if an Apicoectomy is Ideal For Your Needs
An apicoectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that can treat a tooth that has previously undergone a root canal treatment but has failed to heal properly. It’s usually recommended as a last resort when other treatment options have failed.
If you’re experiencing dental pain or have been told that you need an apicoectomy, don’t hesitate to speak to your endodontist to learn more about the procedure and how it can help you regain your oral health. We proudly serve patients in Denton and surrounding areas, including Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, TX.