Apicoectomy may be difficult to spell, but it is a tooth-saving method that is valuable in the dental industry. It is also known as root-end surgery or apical surgery. The procedure is unpleasant but if you become familiar with the process, you will know what to expect.

What is Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is a minor surgery used to save damaged teeth and prevent complications. It is called root end surgery because it involves removing the tooth’s root and surrounding tissue. A dentist may perform the procedure, but it’s typically handled by an endodontist.

Why Have an Apicoectomy?

Root-end surgery is typically recommended when root canal treatment does not solve a dental issue. You may be experiencing root crowding, inflammation, or infection. The procedure will prevent problems that could impact other teeth.

You may also have an apicoectomy to:

Remove calcium deposits in the root canal
Address issues that aren’t showing up on an X-ray
Treat a tooth fracture
Treat teeth with extra roots
Address bone loss that could lead to tooth loss
Remove rotted teeth

How Do I Know I Need an Apicoectomy?

Only a dentist can tell you if you need an apicoectomy. However, you may suspect you require the procedure if you are experiencing:

Persistent pain after a root canal
An infection after a root canal
Damage to the tooth’s root
Calcium build-up can pose complications in root canal procedures

What is the Difference Between a Root Canal and an Apicoectomy?

A root canal addresses inflammation and infection in your tooth’s inner pulp. If untreated, infections can lead to tooth decay and abscesses, and they can even spread to your gums.

The procedure involves the dentist opening your tooth, removing the pulp, and cleaning the root. They will then fill and seal the tooth.

An apicoectomy only deals with the tip of the root. It is typically the follow-up to a root canal.

Is There an Alternative to Apicoectomy?

Apicoectomy is not a pleasant procedure, but if your dentist recommends it, there may be no other alternative than removing the teeth. If you go this route, you may be able to get implants, dentures, or a bridge to replace the tooth. However, apicoectomy is typically a less extensive and more affordable procedure.

What Happens During an Apicoectomy?

The dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area.
The provider will cut through your gums and push aside the tissue to reach the root of the tooth. They will remove as little of the root as possible and the infected tissue surrounding the root.
The root canal is cleaned and sealed with a small filling to prevent infection.
The provider may take an x-ray to ensure the procedure was successful. They will check that there are no spaces that promote infection.
The gum tissue is stitched allowing the gum to grow back in place and heal. The jaw will also heal around the root.
You may need to return to the dentist to have your stitches removed. However, many providers use self-dissolving stitches which fall out on their own.

The procedure typically takes between 30 to 90 minutes depending on the intricacy of the root structure.

What is the Recovery Period Like?

Apicoectomies are relatively painless considering the anesthetic. However, you may experience pain as the numbness wears off. The dentist or endodontist will recommend special care as follows:

Apply an ice pack to reduce pain and swelling
Take pain medications- the doctor may prescribe extra-strength pain medications or you may use OTC products
Eat soft foods and avoid spicy, acidic foods for the first 48 hours.
Brush gently around the affected area
Don’t rinse your mouth for 48 hours
Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours
Avoid or decrease smoking which can interfere with healing
Take your prescribed antibiotics- talk to your doctor to ensure the medications you are taking won’t interfere with antibiotics

You should begin feeling better in a day or two. You will be able to return to your normal activities.

What are Apicoectomy Success Rates?

Apicoectomies are generally successful. Research shows that 97% of patients experience excellent results for up to five years following surgery. 75% continue to see success after 10 to 13 years.

Another study found that apicoectomies are a suitable way to preserve teeth affected by infections and root issues.

What are Apicoectomy Risks and Complications?

Although apicoectomies are mostly successful, complications can arise. The most common cause of surgical failure is a gap at the end of the root. Gaps can collect bacteria and cause infections.

Nerve damage may also occur in rare instances.

Are Apicoectomies Painful?

Patients receive a local anesthetic to minimize pain during the surgery. However, they may experience pain during the healing period. The pain is often more intense than root canal recovery pain as the surgery is more invasive.

However, pain will typically subside in one to two days and can be managed with OTC or prescription pain meds. One 2008 study found that one-third of patients choose not to take pain meds during the recovery period.

You may also experience bleeding after the surgery. You can control bleeding by raising your head to slow down blood flow. Bleeding typically subsides in 1 to 2 hours.

Apicoectomies as Emergency Care Procedures

Tooth root issues should not be ignored. If left untreated, bacteria can eat through your tooth’s enamel and dentin layers and work their way to the pulp. Once it hits the pulp, it can destroy the nerves, and blood vessels in the area. The condition is also quite painful.

Dentists often treat endodontics as an emergency procedure. They will see you right away to prevent further damage to the area.

32Ology Offers Emergency Care for Apicoectomies in Los Angeles

If you are experiencing dental pain and are having a dental emergency, do not hesitate to contact 32Ology. Our dentists offer extensive services including emergency care of apicoectomies. We provide immediate assistance for unplanned dental needs.

Dr. Edon Hirt our endodontist has extensive experience in various aspects of dental care and root canal therphy. He uses advanced equipment to produce minimally invasive surgeries and is known for his gentle touch.

Dr. Edon Hirt– USC certified Endodontist in Los Angeles, CA.

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