You’ve already had a root canal treatment. Maybe you had endodontic retreatment, too. But that same tooth keeps giving you problems, causing extreme sensitivity and hurting even when you are not eating or drinking. But before you give in to the idea of extracting the tooth, your endodontist may suggest a better alternative — an apicoectomy.
What Is An Apicoectomy?
Your teeth are held in place by roots that reach all the way up to your jawbone. An apicoectomy is a minor procedure that removes infected tissue as well as the “apex,” or the very tip of the tooth’s root.
Do I Really Need An Apicoectomy?
If you’ve already undergone a root canal but the infection persists, you may need an apicoectomy. Your endodontist at Dr. Patty Miami may recommend an apicoectomy, also called root end surgery, when your tooth cannot be saved with a conventional root canal or [endodontic retreatment].
The goal of an apicoectomy is to preserve the remaining part of the tooth and prevent future reinfection. Often, the only alternative to this procedure is removing the tooth and hopefully replacing it with an [implant]. However, a tooth extraction should always be your last resort.
What Happens During An Apicoectomy?
Your endodontic team at Dr. Patty Miami will explain how to prepare for your surgery. On the day of your appointment, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic to make sure you don’t feel anything during the procedure. You may also choose to relax further with one of our numerous [sedation dentistry solutions].
Once the area is completely numb, your endodontist will make a small incision in the gum tissue above or below the infected tooth. The infected tissue and the tip of the tooth’s root will be removed and sealed with a filling solution. Then, your dentist will suture the gums with a few stitches to promote healing around the incision site.
Recovering From Apicoectomy Surgery
Most patients are able to go back to their normal activities within a day or two. You may experience some discomfort and swelling as the anesthesia wears off, which can be easily managed with over-the-counter medications.
Make sure to follow your endodontist’s post-treatment instructions, including avoiding hard or chewy foods and brushing gently around the wound site. You will be scheduled to come back for a follow-up appointment a few days after the procedure to make sure you are healing correctly. During that visit, you can also speak to a [cosmetic dentist] to learn about your tooth restoration options and [crowns].
Why Choose Dr. Patty?
For Consultation Call Now: (305) 735-3002
Excellent dental care and outstanding customer service are not the only things that set us apart. At Dr. Patty Miami, we pride ourselves on going above and beyond the mark to offer our clients an upscale, anxiety-free experience at every visit.
Discover the exclusive perks offered at Dr. Patty Miami:
Numbness reversal
Numbness can be limiting, affecting one’s speech, smile, and ability to drink after a visit. Dr. Patty’s reversal process allows clients to leave the dental boutique and carry on with their day as if nothing happened, so you don’t have to worry about canceling your engagements after your procedure.
Laser
The professionals at Dr. Patty Miami are committed to your health and wellness. That’s why we use lasers to offer a safe, anxiety-free dental experience without drills and scalpels. This innovative laser technology has several advantages, including minimal intervention and, in most cases, little-to-no anesthesia.
Sedation dentistry
Multiple options for a more comfortable and nerve-free experience.
Personal Concierge Service
We can arrange everything from RedCap or limo transportation to and from your appointment to making nearby lunch or dinner reservations for after your appointment.
Advanced Digital Surround X-Rays
Minimal exposure, more precise, and digitally stored for your convenience.
State-of-the-art technologies and facilities
Complimentary wine & Nespresso coffee bar, hot towel service, temple massage therapy, paraffin treatments, music & movie selections are just a few of the amenities you’ll find at our ultra-chic, upscale facilities.
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Apicoectomy FAQs
Will I Be Asleep During My Apicoectomy?
Apicoectomies are typically performed under local anesthesia, meaning that you will be awake, but your mouth will be numb so you will feel no pain during the procedure. At Dr. Patty Miami, we offer sedation dentistry options for patients with dental fears or phobias. Click here to learn more.
How Long Does An Apicoectomy Take?
It will depend on the location of the affected tooth and complexity of the root structure. However, most apicoectomies take between 60 to 90 minutes to complete.
What Is The Success Rate Of Apicoectomies?
Apicoectomies are one of the most common dental surgeries and are very effective for treating complex tooth infections. A recent study found that around 97% of patients that received an apicoectomy procedure still experienced stellar results five years after surgery.
Is The Apicoectomy Procedure Covered By Dental Insurance?
Most dental insurances cover at least part of the apicoectomy procedure, but the final cost of the surgery will depend on your individual plan. At Dr. Patty Miami we work with most dental insurance plans and can perform a complimentary benefits check during your first consultation. Call us at (#) for more information.
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