What is an apicoectomy and do I need one?

What is an apicoectomy and do I need one?

Our teeth are held in place by roots that extend into our jawbone. An apicoectomy is aminor surgical procedure that removes the apex, or very tip, of the tooth’s root. WHY WOULD I NEED THIS? An apicoectomy, also known as root end surgery, might be necessary if an infection develops or continues after a root canal.

What is the difference between a root canal and apicoectomy?

Your dentist may recommend another root canal, or they may recommend an apicoectomy. Both procedures are designed to save a tooth that is at risk of complete failure. In technical terms, the description of an apicoectomy is a root-end resection with root-end filling.

Can an apicoectomy save a tooth from extraction?

In many cases, an apicoectomy can save a tooth from extraction. Removing infectious lesions and sealing the end of the tooth’s root is often enough to give it a fresh start in your mouth and let you keep the tooth for a lifetime.

What should I do to clean my mouth before an apicoectomy?

Having a clean mouth at the start of your apicoectomy lowers the risk of contamination of the surgical site. Your endodontist may have you rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash just prior to your surgery, but you should also do a thorough dental cleaning at home before the apicoectomy.

Can apicoectomy save a failing root canal-treated tooth?

While only performed when conventional root canal retreatment is not practical, apicoectomy for failing root canal-treated teeth can save them, returning the tooth, bone and gum tissues to health for many years.

What causes apical surgery to fail?

One 2011 study showed that the main cause of apical surgery failure is a gap in the filling at the end of the root. This causes bacteria to leak back into the tooth. An apicoectomy is a routine outpatient surgical procedure that’s performed when standard root canal therapy isn’t enough to save a tooth.

What should I avoid after an apicoectomy?

Avoid eating while you’re still experiencing any numbness to avoid harming your mouth or stitches. As your apicoectomy removes infected tissue, you could feel better than you did quickly after the surgery!