Apicoectomy
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Did you know…
An apicoectomy procedure only takes about 30 to 90 minutes to complete.
How it works: The apicoectomy process
Local Anesthesia & Sedation Options
First, your endodontist will apply a numbing agent to the treatment area. Looking for sedation options? Talk to your endodontist to decide which kind of sedation will be best for you.
Incision Procedure
During the procedure, your endodontist will create a minor incision in order to push aside the gum, exposing the bone, allowing them to reach the apex of your tooth.
Removal & X-Rays
Once your endodontist has removed the root tip, they will clean the inside of the tooth and seal it with a small filling. This will help to prevent future infections. At this time, your endodontist will take multiple x-rays to ensure an adequate amount of root has been resected and filled.
Sutures & Healing
Once the apicoectomy is complete, your endodontist will apply sutures to your gum tissue to allow for proper healing. This also allows your jawbone to heal around the filling at the end of the root.
Apicoectomy Surgery Aftercare
Avoid Direct Brushing
Right after your apicoectomy, do not brush the treated area, as this can cause irritation and destabilization to the sutures. Instead, use the prescribed mouth rinse to gently rinse your mouth twice a day. You may resume your brushing routine in the surgical area two to three days after your apicoectomy. Make sure to use gentle strokes and light pressure.
WHAT TO EAT AND WHAT NOT TO EAT
For the next 3-5 days, steer clear of spicy, hot (temperature), and hard foods that could traumatize the surgical sight. Some food recommendations are eggs, soups, smoothies, or yogurt. Ultimately, the best option is to avoid chewing near the surgical sight entirely. This will lead to the least discomfort and promote proper healing.
Soothe Discomfort
After the surgery, you will be prescribed a pain medication, an antibiotic, and a mouth rise. Please use as directed. You may also place an ice pack on the cheek to temporarily reduce pain and inflammation. If you feel something abnormal, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office.
Follow Instructions
Every patient is different, so your endodontist will craft a set of healing instructions that are unique to your procedure and health needs. Follow these closely for a successful healing process, and be sure to schedule any required follow-up appointments. It is imperative for your endodontist to remove your sutures, check in on your healing process, and assess the state of your tooth.
Did you know…
Getting an apicoectomy can prevent you from needing expensive, invasive treatments in the future.
Have questions about apicoectomy? Find answers here.
What is the difference between an apicoectomy and a root canal?
A root canal treatment deals with the crown of the tooth, which is the part that we can see above the gumline. An apicoectomy treats the deepest part of the tooth that is below the gumline. During an apicoectomy, your endodontist accesses the inflamed tissue through the root tip, or apex, of the tooth. Then a filling is placed to seal the base of the root so you can be infection and toothache-free.
Does an apicoectomy hurt?
There is no pain during the procedure as the area is numbed. After the procedure, there is sometimes discomfort or slight swelling at the incision site. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To alleviate your discomfort, an appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our office at 702-485-5455 for instructions. Just like root canal therapy, apicoectomies save teeth, which is always our first priority as dental professionals. They are less expensive, quicker and less painful than the process of extraction and tooth replacement.
Is an apicoectomy covered by insurance?
Most major dental insurance providers do cover a part of your apicoectomy procedure. However, every insurance is different, so we recommend consulting with your provider to understand the scope of your benefits and coverage.
Did you know…
An apicoectomy is sometimes called endodontic microsurgery, as a microscope is often used during the procedure.