What happens when root canal therapy isn’t enough
When root canal therapy doesn’t resolve your dental issue, you may hear your endodontist mention the option of an apicoectomy. This minor surgical procedure is a specialized endodontics solution designed to save teeth when traditional methods fall short. This blog post explains how our board-certified endodontists at West Fort Worth Endodontics perform an apicoectomy with precision and care to help preserve your smile.
What is an apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a highly specialized procedure where the tip of your tooth root, or apex, is surgically removed along with any surrounding infected tissue. Think of it as a more targeted solution when the infection lingers despite prior root canal therapy.
Here’s the key difference between root canal therapy and an apicoectomy. During a root canal, the endodontist cleans and seals the inside canals of the tooth, but if the infection persists due to complex tooth anatomy, an apicoectomy steps in to address those hard-to-reach issues. This method is particularly effective for treating persistent infections that don’t respond to traditional therapies.
By removing the source of the problem at the root tip and sealing it to prevent reinfection, an apicoectomy provides a focused and long-lasting solution for saving your natural tooth.
Why might root canal therapy not be enough?
While root canal therapy is highly successful in most cases, there are instances where it doesn’t fully resolve the issue. Here are some common situations where a root canal might fall short:
Hidden or curved canals that standard tools couldn’t fully clean
Persistent or recurrent infections despite previous treatment
Fractures or complex anatomy that make full disinfection of the tooth’s structure challenging
When these issues arise, simply repeating a root canal procedure may not be enough. An apicoectomy, however, directly targets the problematic root tip and the surrounding infection to resolve the issue more effectively. It’s often the best next step for preserving the natural tooth and avoiding an extraction.
What to expect during an apicoectomy
If your endodontist recommends an apicoectomy, you may wonder what the procedure involves. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect:
Step 1: Diagnostic evaluation
Before the procedure, your endodontist will thoroughly evaluate your tooth using X-rays or CBCT scans to pinpoint the exact location and extent of the infection.
Step 2: Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort, the area around the affected tooth will be numbed using local anesthesia. Most patients report minimal discomfort throughout the procedure.
Step 3: Surgical removal of the root tip
A small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the infected tooth root. The endodontist carefully removes the root tip and any surrounding infected tissue.
Step 4: Sealing the root
The remaining root canal is sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent future reinfection. The area is then sutured to allow for proper healing.
Recovery and post-operative care
Recovery is relatively quick for most patients. You may experience mild swelling or tenderness, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and following your endodontist’s care instructions. Within a few days, you’ll be back to your regular routine—minus the tooth pain.
Benefits of apicoectomy
Wondering why you should consider an apicoectomy over other alternatives like tooth extraction? Here are the key benefits:
Saves your natural tooth: Preserving your own tooth is always the best option for long-term oral health, functionality and aesthetics.
Long-term solution: An apicoectomy provides a definitive solution for recurrent infections, preventing further dental complications.
High success rate: When performed by experienced professionals like the team at West Fort Worth Endodontics, an apicoectomy has excellent success rates.
Signs you might need an apicoectomy
Wondering if an apicoectomy might be the right solution for you? Here are some signs to look out for:
Persistent pain or swelling after a root canal procedure
A recurring abscess near the treated tooth
Imaging results that reveal unresolved infection or damage at the tooth root
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to consult a trusted endodontist to assess the health of your affected tooth.
Why choose West Fort Worth Endodontics for your apicoectomy?
When it comes to specialized dental procedures like an apicoectomy, choosing the right endodontist can make a world of difference. Here’s why patients trust West Fort Worth Endodontics:
Unmatched expertise: Our board-certified endodontists specialize in complex dental surgeries like an apicoectomy, ensuring precision and care.
Advanced technology: We utilize cutting-edge tools, including CBCT imaging and operating microscopes, to provide accurate diagnoses and successful treatments.
Patient-focused care: Every detail of your visit is designed with your comfort and satisfaction in mind. Our team prioritizes clear communication and seamless experiences.
With our expertise and advanced facilities, you can trust us to provide exceptional care tailored to your unique needs.
Call our office and get relief from dental pain.
Don’t settle for ongoing discomfort or uncertainty about your dental health. An apicoectomy could be the solution you’ve been searching for to save your natural tooth and restore your oral health.
Contact our team at West Fort Worth Endodontics today to schedule a consultation. We’ll guide you every step of the way because your comfort and health are our top priorities.