Apicoectomy, also known as root-end surgery, is a dental procedure performed by an endodontist to treat infections or inflammation in the root tip of a tooth. It is typically recommended when conventional root canal treatment has not been successful in resolving the issue.
Reasons for Requiring an Apicoectomy
There are several reasons why someone may require an apicoectomy:
- A persistent infection in the tooth despite previous treatments such as root canals or antibiotics.
- There is a fracture or crack in the tooth that cannot be repaired through other means.
- In some cases, an apicoectomy may be necessary due to anatomical factors such as curved roots or blocked canals that make traditional root canal treatment ineffective.
- Patients who have undergone multiple previous dental procedures on the same tooth may also benefit from this procedure.
If you find yourself facing these issues despite previous treatments, consult with our dentist in Port Charlotte, FL, about whether an apicoectomy could help resolve your problems. It might just offer you relief from discomfort and restore your overall oral health.
The Procedure of Apicoectomy
First, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures that you won't feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Then, our dentist will make a small incision in your gum to expose the underlying bone and infected tissue. Using specialized instruments, we will carefully remove the infected tissue and clean out any debris from within the tooth's root canal. Once cleaned, we will seal off the end of the root with a small filling material called gutta-percha.
Afterward, stitches are used to close the incision in your gum. You may experience some swelling and discomfort for a few days following an apicoectomy, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication prescribed by your dentist.
It's important to follow all postoperative instructions provided by the dentist for proper healing. They may recommend avoiding certain foods or activities that could disrupt healing or cause infection.
An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure that effectively treats persistent infections in teeth even after previous root canal treatment has been done. Book an online appointment or call us at (941) 624-4575 to consult with our dentist in Port Charlotte, FL, today! You can also visit us at 4120 Tamiami Trail Suite A, Port Charlotte, FL 33952.