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
Painstaking work! Good referral network. - Dr. Cain worked on my injured tooth steadily & very carefully, as if nothing else he did was more important. I also appreciated his excellent communication & important info-sharing with my regular dentist, Dr. Underwood.
Dr. Wells and Raven were great. They did a fantastic job explaining the options and the procedure. The procedure was painless. Thank you!
Nothing short of excellence. Patient experience is top notch! Dr.Wells and Raven are both stellar people!
Dr. Bryce and his staff are the kindest, most professional and extremely knowledgeable people I’ve ever dealt with. You can have confidence and peace of mind that you’re in the best hands around when you’re in their care. I highly recommend!
I was referred to Memphis Endodontics because I was having an issue with a failed root canal from 1998. Dr. Brandon Scott was ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL!! He took the time to answer all my questions & explained in detail what to expect along with possible issues. The repair went very well. No pain and no issues. I truly appreciate his time & talent. The office staff were so kind, courteous, & efficient. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone that is need of a root canal.
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Who Is a Candidate for Apicoectomy?
Candidates for an apicoectomy should have already had a root canal treatment, but the infection has remained or returned in the root tips. When you have a root canal, a bridge or crown may be placed to strengthen and protect the tooth. This can make another root canal or retreatment difficult if an infection is found since it could weaken or destroy the crown or bridge. In these cases, an apicoectomy at Memphis Endodontics may be the best treatment to remove the existing infection while also preventing other infections.
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.