Endodontists not only perform root canals, they also perform an endodontic surgery called an apicoectomy.
What Is An Apicoectomy?
It’s a procedure where your endodontist removes infected tissue near the tip of your tooth’s root. This is a common minor surgery that is mainly used when the endodontist can’t perform a root canal re-treatment due to problems with posts or root canal alternations that won’t allow him or her to work on the root. They are also performed when root canals become infected, when the endodontist needs to get to the end of a root that is too narrow, or when your root surface or bone surrounding the tooth is damaged and must be repaired.
What Happens During the Surgery?
First, you’ll receive local anesthetic. To begin, your endodontist make an incision into the gum tissue and look at the bone. Then, he or she will take out the infected tissue and the tip of the root (called the apex). Once that is done, he or she will place a filling that will seal the root canal area, and a bone graft will be performed if needed. At the end of the procedure, some sutures will be sewn into your gums so that they heal quickly. You will have to return to the endodontist’s office to have the stitches removed and for follow-up visits. The bone will regrow over a period of months.
Following the surgery, your mouth will probably be sore the in the area of the incision. Your endodontist will prescribe medication that will make your mouth feel better. You may also be able to drive home from the surgery, but it’s best to discuss that with your endodontist first.
This Sounds Complicated! What Kind of Equipment Is Used?
Although an apicoectomy is considered minor surgery, it is performed with state-of-the-art tools and technology. Your endodontist will use:
Wexford and Cranberry Endodontist
If you are feeling pain in a tooth where you’ve had a root canal performed, it’s time to see an endodontist to see if this surgery is needed. Dr. Semashko, a Cranberry-based endodontist, can examine your root canal and determine if you need an apicoectomy. Call his office today to make an appointment.