What Is An Apicoectomy?
A root canal removes the infection from a tooth, but the root of the tooth has multiple tiny branches where the infection may hide or return. If a tooth is still infected or gets another infection after a root canal has been completed, an apicoectomy may be suggested. Drs. Harris, Wells, Scott, Cain, Dagen, and McCreary perform this procedure at Memphis Endodontics. An apicoectomy takes out any infected tissue along the tooth's root, in addition to the affected root tip(s). Also known as a root-end resection or endodontic microsurgery, an apicoectomy may save the upper portion of the tooth to avoid disturbing a restoration, like a bridge or crown. After one (or more than one) root canal, contact Memphis Endodontics at one of our locations in Kirby, Collierville, Bartlett, or Memphis, TN to get a better solution with an apicoectomy.
What Are the Benefits of Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy offers several benefits for preserving your natural tooth and preventing further dental issues:
- Eliminates Persistent Infection: Targets and removes the infected tissue at the root tip, resolving ongoing infection
- Saves the Natural Tooth: Helps preserve the natural tooth structure, avoiding the need for extraction
- Prevents Future Complications: Reduces the risk of future dental issues by sealing the root canal and preventing reinfection
- Minimally Invasive: Typically performed with minimal discomfort and a quick recovery time
How Is an Apicoectomy Performed?
Prior to performing a treatment, one of our team members will assess your mouth and then discuss your choices before deciding on an apicoectomy. To start the treatment, local anesthesia will be used. Other sedation techniques may be available depending on the complexity of your treatment or if you have dental anxiety and fears. One of our endodontic specialists will begin by creating an incision in your gum tissue to expose the root of the tooth. The infected tissue and root tip will be addressed before the area is carefully and thoroughly cleaned. To ensure the infection is completely removed, a dental dye can highlight cracks in your tooth. As soon as your tooth is sealed, we will close the gums using sutures.
Memphis Endodontics Reviews
Dr. McCreary and his staff were amazing. I have had my fair share of dental issues and today was by fair the quickest and seamless procedure I have ever had. I hope to not come back, but if I need to I know I’ll be in good hands!
Highly recommend
Very good experience with Memphis Endodontics. The staff is friendly, professional. Dr. Brandon Scott is very professional and knows his field and answers questions with a customer friendly demeanor. I was in very capable hands for a root canal procedure and it was painless and I felt that it is a good job done. I definitely would go back if I had any other future dental issue. Highly recommend this group. Staff is efficient and friendly helpful too.
Dr. Scott performed a root canal on my molar. His assistant, Raven, promised that the only pain would be a minor sting from the Lidocaine numbing shot. She was spot on—no pain. In and out in about an hour. No more toothache. He is a master at his craft.
Memphis Endodontics is the absolute BEST!! The front desk staff Tara and Staci will greet you with smiles and efficiency! They make the check-in process easy and work very hard to prevent duplication of paperwork. They remind you of your visit in advance and verify your insurance coverage, so there are no surprise charges on the day of treatment. Dr. Christian Cain performed services for me on two occasions and is very thorough and detailed in his work and explanations of treatment. I would recommend the East location, Mt. Moriah team for your Endodontics needs!
72
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the recovery time after an apicoectomy?
Recovery time can vary, but most patients experience improvement within a few days to a week. You may have some swelling and discomfort, but following your dentist's aftercare instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery.
Are there any risks or complications associated with an apicoectomy?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, or damage to surrounding teeth or nerves. However, these complications are rare, and your dentist will discuss any concerns with you prior to the procedure.
Will I still need follow-up treatments after an apicoectomy?
Follow-up appointments are typically necessary to monitor healing and ensure that the infection has resolved. Your dentist will provide guidance on any additional treatments or dental care needed after the procedure.
Preserve Your Tooth
If your tooth becomes reinfected after one or more root canals, an apicoectomy at Memphis Endodontics could be the ideal solution. This procedure effectively removes the infection from the tips of the tooth root without disturbing any dental restorations, such as crowns or bridges. For more information, contact one of our offices in or around Memphis, TN to schedule a consultation with one of our endodontic specialists.