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What Is an Apicoectomy?
Most of the time, a root canal is all that is needed to save a tooth. Occasionally, an apicoectomy, or endodontic surgery, is needed when the non-surgical therapies aren’t sufficient to heal the tooth. This procedure can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays but still manifest as pain in the tooth.
Your endodontist will make an incision on the top of the tooth in the gums to expose the bone and surrounding inflamed tissues. The damaged tissues are removed along with the end of the root tip. Filling material is placed at the end of the root to prevent reinfection. The bone can heal around the root for months, and full function is restored.
How Do I Know if I Need an Apicoectomy?
If you previously had a root canal treatment and are now experiencing pain or swelling in the area above the tooth, contact us today! The infection may manifest itself in the form of a pimple near the tooth. If you notice a pimple, or a bad taste or odor in your mouth, your tooth may have become infected again following the root canal treatment.
How Long Is the Recovery Period?
While an apicoectomy is considered a surgical procedure, discomfort is usually minimal. Your endodontist will remove stitches 2 to 7 days after the procedure, and swelling and soreness usually diminish after two weeks. To aid in a quick recovery time, try not to irritate the affected area by eating crunchy foods, brushing too hard, or smoking. Relax and avoid contact sports as well while your mouth is healing. Finally, to ensure that your tooth remains healthy, maintain good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing, along with regular dental check-ups.