#apicoectomy

Apicoectomy is a surgical procedure that is performed to remove the infected root tip of a tooth. It is typically performed when root canal therapy has failed to eliminate an infection. An apicoectomy can also be performed to treat a tooth that has a fractured root or a cyst at the root tip.

Indianapolis Endodontics PC is a team of experienced endodontists who specialize in apicoectomies and other endodontic procedures. They use the latest technology and techniques to provide their patients with the best possible care.

Why is an apicoectomy necessary?

An apicoectomy may be necessary if:

Root canal therapy has failed to eliminate an infection.

The tooth has a fractured root.

The tooth has a cyst at the root tip.

The tooth is causing pain or inflammation.

The tooth is interfering with a dental implant or other dental procedure.

What happens during an apicoectomy?

During an apicoectomy, the endodontist will:

Make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone and the root tip of the tooth.

Remove the infected root tip and any surrounding inflamed tissue.

Place a root-end filling to seal the root and prevent further infection.

Suture the gum tissue closed.

What is the recovery time from an apicoectomy?

Most patients experience some discomfort and swelling after an apicoectomy. However, this discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. The swelling typically subsides within a few days.

Most patients are able to return to work or school the day after surgery. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activity for a few days.

What are the benefits of an apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy can help to:

Eliminate an infection.

Save a tooth from extraction.

Relieve pain and inflammation.

Preserve the function of the tooth.

Prevent further damage to the bone and surrounding teeth.

Your gum tissue and the root of your impacted tooth may be damaged as a result.

Only a professional will suggest an apicoectomy as an alternative to a second root canal, a little operation that is frequently performed in the dentist's office.

An apicoectomy is performed on the tooth's root while root canal therapy is performed on the tooth's crown.

What is an Apicoectomy?

Dr Dennis Shepherd of the Rescue Dentist at Maunu in Whangarei Explains?

• An Apicoectomy is an endodontic treatment required when inflammation or infection occurs at the APEX of the tooths ROOT hence the name Apec 'o' Ectomy or Apicoectomy.

The issue, although rare, can occur after a root canal therapy, usually the failure of an old root canal.

• This procedure attempts to salvage a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

• An incision is made along the gum tissue following down the affected tooth, and the infected, inflamed tissue is removed.

The area is then filled with a retrograde filling to seal the root canal, preventing bacteria or toxins from accessing the canal space into the periradicular tissues.

• After the procedure, the gum is sutured with small stitches. If necessary, the removed infected, inflamed tissue may require laboratory analysis.

So What are the Benefits of an Apicoectomy?

The main benefits of an Apicoectomy is the immediate relief of current painful symptoms and saving the tooth, and avoiding further infection spread to other teeth,

damaging your overall oral health.

So What are the Alternatives to an Apicoectomy?

The alternatives to an Apicoectomy will vary depending upon the diagnosis; the most common options are:

1 Tooth extraction.

2 Tooth extraction replaced with dental implants and dental crowns.

The issue, although rare, can occur after a root canal therapy, usually the failure of an old root canal.

• This procedure attempts to salvage a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

• An incision is made along the gum tissue following down the affected tooth, and the infected, inflamed tissue is removed.

The area is then filled with a retrograde filling to seal the root canal, preventing bacteria or toxins from accessing the canal space into the periradicular tissues.

• After the procedure, the gum is sutured with small stitches. If necessary, the removed infected, inflamed tissue may require laboratory analysis.

The alternatives to an Apicoectomy will vary depending upon the diagnosis; the most common options are:

1 Tooth extraction.

2 Tooth extraction replaced with dental implants and dental crowns.