What Is An Apicoectomy And Why Do I Need It?

Posted on 8/15/2024 by Premier Dental

female dental professional and female patient in dental chair talking and smiling

Have you ever heard of an apicoectomy? If not, you're not alone. This is a relatively uncommon dental procedure that most people will never need. However, it can be a lifesaver for some patients who are struggling with persistent dental problems.

So, what exactly is an apicoectomy? In simple terms, it's a surgical procedure that removes the very tip of the root of a tooth. This may be necessary if the root has become infected or damaged, and traditional treatments haven't been successful.

Now, let's dive deeper into the reasons why you might need an apicoectomy:

When Is An Apicoectomy Necessary?

There are a few situations where an apicoectomy might be the best course of action. These include:

•	Persistent infection: If you have an infection at the tip of your tooth root that hasn't responded to root canal treatment, an apicoectomy might be needed to remove the infected tissue.
•	Cyst or tumor: Sometimes, a cyst or tumor can develop at the tip of the root. An apicoectomy can remove this abnormal growth and prevent further damage to the surrounding bone.
•	Fractured root: If the root of your tooth has fractured, an apicoectomy may be necessary to remove the broken piece and save the rest of the tooth.

What Happens During An Apicoectomy?

During an apicoectomy, an oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gum tissue to access the root of the tooth. They will then remove the tip of the root, along with any infected or damaged tissue.

In some cases, the surgeon may also place a small filling material at the end of the root to seal it off. Finally, they will stitch the gum tissue closed and you'll be on your way to recovery.

Recovery After An Apicoectomy

Most patients experience some discomfort after an apicoectomy. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You may also need to eat soft foods for a few days while the surgical site heals.

It's important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully during recovery. This will help ensure that the surgery is successful and you heal properly.

The Benefits of An Apicoectomy

An apicoectomy can offer several benefits, including:

•	Saving your tooth: An apicoectomy can help you avoid having to extract a tooth that might otherwise be lost.
•	Eliminating infection: The procedure can remove an infection that could spread to other parts of your mouth or body.
•	Preventing further damage: An apicoectomy can prevent further damage to the surrounding bone and tissues.
•	Improving your oral health: By addressing the underlying problem, an apicoectomy can improve your overall oral health.

The Risks of An Apicoectomy

As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks associated with an apicoectomy. These include:

•	Infection: There is a small risk of infection after any surgery.
•	Nerve damage: There is a small risk of damage to the nerves in the surrounding area.
•	Sinus perforation: In rare cases, the sinus cavity can be perforated during the surgery.

It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of an apicoectomy with your dentist before deciding if it's the right procedure for you.

Conclusion

An apicoectomy is a relatively uncommon dental procedure that can be a lifesaver for some patients. If you're struggling with a persistent dental problem, talk to your dentist to see if an apicoectomy is right for you.

Bells
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(731) 663-9999

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Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
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Office

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Jackson, TN 38305

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14029 S 1st St
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Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

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(731) 617-9818

689 W Church St, Lexington, TN 38351

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Tue: 8am - 5pm
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Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: Closed
Sat & Sun: Closed

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