Apical Surgery (Apicoectomy)
When Is Apical Surgery Recommended?
When a root canal procedure cannot reach deep enough into the canals of a tooth, and infection persists after the root canal is complete, apical surgery is the next step to try and stop the infection, mitigate further issues, and save the tooth.
If the bacteria are deep enough in the tooth's roots, they will get into areas too narrow for a traditional root canal to reach.
When root canals fail to remove the infection, this is most often the cause. Because the infection is too deep for a traditional root canal, retreatment is not an option.
What Is Apical Surgery?
The dentist lifts a small section of gum from the base of the infected tooth where its root ends. Next, they remove the tip of the root canal, where the infection is located, clean the affected area, and seal the canal to prevent further infection.
The dentist sutures the gums back into place, and the procedure is complete. It is a quick and minimally invasive procedure. Because the patient is under local or general anesthesia for the procedure, they feel no pain.
Healing from apical surgery can take a few weeks, with soreness centered around the section of sutured gums. Your dentist will generally prescribe a combination of pain medication, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medicine as necessary for recovery.
What's the Benefit of Apical Surgery?
Apical surgery is the last tool endodontists have to try and save a natural tooth. If an endodontist doesn't perform the procedure, eventually, it will result in tooth loss and will likely cause many other health issues for the jawbone, gums, and surrounding teeth.
Ignoring this issue puts the patient's oral health at risk, and they also risk the infection entering the bloodstream, which can compromise the immune system and sicken the patient.
Is It Worth Saving The Tooth?
Some patients might wonder if it is worth going through this trouble to try and save the natural tooth. Aren't dental implants an option?
Dental implants are a viable solution for most patients who suffer tooth loss, but keeping the natural tooth inside the jaw as long as possible is always preferable because it is less invasive and better for long-term oral health.
Patients should consider dental implants when it becomes clear that the infected tooth cannot be saved or when the best option for the patient's health is to have it removed.
Burleson, Texas Apical Surgery
At Burleson Endodontics, we provide the highest quality care Texas has to offer. We serve the greater Burleson, TX area including, Fort Worth, Crowley, Joshua, and Cleburne.
If you are looking for treatment or have additional questions regarding apical surgery, root canals, or are interested in scheduling an appointment to meet with Dr. Fitzhugh, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at (817) 935-8414. We look forward to helping your build your healthiest smile.
