When do I need to have an apicoectomy?

When do I need to have an apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is aminor surgical procedure that removes the apex, or very tip, of the tooth’s root. WHY WOULD I NEED THIS? An apicoectomy, also known as root end surgery, might be necessary if an infection develops or continues after a root canal.

Why is an apicoectomy called root end surgery?

An apicoectomy is also known as root end surgery. This is because it involves the removal of a tooth’s root tip and surrounding tissue. It’s also called apical surgery, which refers to the “apex,” or end, of the tooth.

How long does it take for an apicoectomy on a front tooth?

Most apicoectomies take between 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the location of the tooth and the complexity of the root structure. Procedures on front teeth are generally the shortest.

What kind of anesthetic is used for an apicoectomy?

The local anesthetic used for an apicoectomy has about twice as much epinephrine (similar to adrenaline) as the anesthetics used when you get a filling. The extra epinephrine constricts your blood vessels to reduce bleeding near the surgical site so the endodontist can see the root.

Can a second root canal be done before an apicoectomy?

In many cases, a second root canal treatment is considered before an apicoectomy. With advances in technology, dentists often can detect additional canals that were not adequately treated and can clear up the infection by doing a second root canal procedure, thus avoiding the need for an apicoectomy.

What happens to your gums during an apicoectomy?

During the procedure, your dentist or endodontist cuts through your gum and pushes the gum tissue aside in order to reach the root. Usually just a few millimeters of the root are removed, as is any infected tissue surrounding the root.

Why is an apicoectomy called an endodontic microsurgery?

A filling is then placed to seal the end of the root. An apicoectomy is sometimes called endodontic microsurgery because the procedure is done under an operating microscope. If a root canal becomes infected again after a root canal has been done, it’s often because of a problem near the apex of the root.