Apicoectomy in Jupiter, FL
Please note we may not offer this treatment at our office. Call (561) 744-0677 for more information.
Apicoectomies: A Modern Solution for Failed Root Canals
If you’ve had a root canal treatment that didn’t heal properly, an apicoectomy might be the solution you need. This minimally invasive surgical procedure is designed to save your natural tooth and relieve symptoms like tooth pain or dental infection.
Our Jupiter, FL, dental office is dedicated to helping patients in Jupiter, Hobe Sound, Tequesta, and nearby communities achieve their best oral health. Call us today at (561) 744-0677 to schedule an appointment.
What Is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy, also known as root-end surgery or root-end resection, is a specialized endodontic surgery performed when a traditional root canal treatment fails to heal the tooth. During this procedure, your endodontist removes the infected tissue at the root tip, cleans the area, and seals it with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection.
This minor surgical procedure is often recommended for patients with:
- Persistent tooth pain or infection after a root canal
- Inflamed or infected tissue at the end of the root
- Narrow or curved root canals that are difficult to clean
- Bone loss or damaged tissue near the affected tooth
Why Choose an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy offers several benefits for patients dealing with a failed root canal:
- Save Your Natural Tooth: Preserving your natural tooth is always the best option for long-term oral health.
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional surgery, an apicoectomy requires only a small incision in the gum tissue.
- High Success Rate: With a success rate of over 90 percent, this procedure is a reliable solution for persistent infections.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, with minimal discomfort.
What to Expect During The Apicoectomy Procedure
An apicoectomy is typically performed under local anesthetic, with options for dental sedation to help you relax. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Preparation: Your endodontist will numb the area and make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the root tip.
- Removal of Infected Tissue: Using specialized tools, they’ll remove the infected or damaged tissue and clean the area.
- Sealing the Root: The root end is filled with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection.
- Closing the Incision: The gum tissue is sutured with a few stitches, and the area is allowed to heal.
The entire procedure takes about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your apicoectomy, you may experience minor discomfort or swelling, which can be managed with pain medication and anti-inflammatory medications. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:
- Avoid chewing on the affected side for a few days.
- Follow a soft diet to prevent irritation.
- Practice good oral hygiene to promote healing.
- Attend follow-up appointments to ensure the area is healing properly.
Most patients recover fully within a week and can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the procedure itself is painless thanks to local anesthetic. Some patients experience mild discomfort afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication.
Most dental insurance plans cover apicoectomy as a necessary procedure to treat a failed root canal. Contact your provider to confirm your coverage.
Recovery after the apicoectomy procedure typically takes a few days to a week, depending on your overall health and the complexity of the procedure.
Yes, an apicoectomy can help treat bone loss caused by infection and promote healing in the surrounding bone.
Is an Apicoectomy Right for You?
If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, swelling, or other symptoms after a root canal, an apicoectomy might be the solution you need. This minor surgical procedure can save your natural tooth and restore your oral health.
At our Jupiter, FL, dental office, we proudly serve patients in Jupiter, Hobe Sound, Limestone Creek, Tequesta, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (561) 744-0677 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how an apicoectomy can help you.