Endodontic Surgery Apicoectomy An apicoectomy is a fairly simple and minor procedure. A dentist can perform it, but endodontists are more qualified specialists since they have more years of training and experience. Adults and children can have an apicoectomy as a way to save teeth with risk factors and prevent severe complications.Apicoectomies are also called root end surgeries. The reason behind it is that an apicoectomy involves the removal of the tip of the tooth's root and tissue around it. Most of the time, our endodontists will recommend an apicoectomy if you already have had a root canal treatment in the past. Sometimes after a root canal, you can have residual tissue in the root or signs of infections. Duggan Endodontics can help you with that. Do I Need an Apicoectomy?Our endodontist might recommend an apicoectomy to you if you had a root canal treatment, but you have signs of infection. It is like a second opportunity for the specialist to save your tooth. An apicoectomy is the last option left besides endodontic retreatment or pulling out your tooth. If our endodontists need to perform an apicoectomy, there are not many options left. What Should I Expect During and After an Apicoectomy?Commonly, our endodontist will sedate the patient with local anesthesia to avoid any pain during the procedure. After our endodontist performs it, you may feel discomfort as the sedation effect wears off. You can take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen if you start feeling pain after the surgery. This discomfort will typically fade within a couple of days, and you will be able to continue your daily activities. Sometimes we will prescribe antibiotics to help fight an infection or avoid one. If you have stitches, most of the time, we will remove them after a week. In the recovery process, you need to avoid hard foods like candy, ice, or nuts. It will be better in the long term if you consume soft foods. Also, remember to be careful with your brushing technique to avoid being too harsh. What is the Difference Between an Apicoectomy and a Root Canal?An endodontist is a specialist who performs both procedures. However, a root canal procedure occurs in the tooth pulp. Patients who have inflammation and bacteria inside of the tooth will need a root end procedure. In a root canal surgery, we will open your tooth, remove the pulp and clean the area. Then, we use materials to fill and seal the removed part of the tooth. Conversely, an apicoectomy involves a part of the root of the tooth. Generally, we perform this procedure after a patient has had a root canal procedure. Especially if your tooth did not heal well, or if you had an infection. There are some less common reasons you might need an apicoectomy. Some of these include treating a fracture, removing calcium deposits, or treating bone loss. If you have questions regarding apicoectomies or you want to schedule an appointment with us, call (512)-380-0777 at Duggan Endodontics today. |
