An apicoectomy is a relatively minor surgical procedure that is performed as a way to save at-risk teeth and prevent them from inflammation and further complications. Also known as root end surgery, the procedure involves removing the root tip of a tooth and its surrounding tissue.
If a dentist recommends an apicoectomy, it is most likely due to the fact that a root canal or other procedure has developed inflammation or infection in the inner layers of the gum line that reaches into the jawbone.
Why Are Apicoectomies Performed?
In general, apicoectomies are performed when a standard procedure such as a root canal treatment has not been sufficient to save a tooth. The apicoectomy is then performed to prevent having to remove a tooth and install other hardware such as a bridge, implant, or partial.
Are Apicoectomies Painful?
Due to the invasive nature of the apicoectomy, it can be more painful and take more time to recover from the procedure. A patient receives local anesthesia to help prevent pain, and medication may be prescribed afterward to help manage discomfort during healing.
A certain amount of swelling and discomfort are considered normal after an apicoectomy. Much of this is managed with over-the-counter painkillers, although stronger medication may be required to provide relief and rest during recovery.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Prior to any work being done, you’ll be given anesthetic to effectively numb the area Your endodontist or dentist will then cut through gum tissue and push through it to reach the root. Inflamed and infected root tissue is removed, and the open area is disinfected and sealed with a small amount of composite material to prevent future infections.
Your incision will then be stitched up so your gums and jaw can heal. Tissues will eventually heal around the composite left in your root cavity. The entire procedure takes anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the extent of the damage you are dealing with.
Post-Surgical Care
During recovery, you’ll likely experience minor swelling and discomfort once the anesthetic wears off completely. Within two days to a week, you’ll be able to resume your normal activities without too much pain.
Your dentist may recommend the use of antibiotics before or after your procedure to prevent infection from occurring. Anti-inflammatories such as Tylenol and ibuprofen should be sufficient for managing pain. Be mindful of brushing and flossing around stitches to ensure that they stay in place until adequate healing has taken place.
Risks Associated With Apicoectomy
There are risks such as infection and surgical failure associated with an apicoectomy. In some cases, the procedure fails to relieve a patient’s symptoms, and more intensive surgical intervention is necessary to make sure the patient retains the function of their jaw, teeth, and soft tissues in the mouth. While this is rare, complications from any surgical procedure are possible. Talk to your Woodmere dentist at Long Beach Endodontics to see how you can minimize the possibility of complications and continue to enjoy continued good dental health.
Don’t delay in making decisions that could significantly impact your dental health. If your Woodmere dentist recommends an apicoectomy, give it serious consideration to ensure continued good health and strong, healthy teeth.
Long Beach Endodontics: Post Apicoectomy Surgery Care and Root Canal Therapy in Woodmere
For exceptional post apicoectomy surgery care and root canal therapy in Woodmere, there’s no better place to go than Long Beach Endodontics. Offering state-of-the-art preventative care, innovative surgical techniques, and a commitment to excellent patient care, we’ll make sure your mouth and teeth are at their healthiest. You deserve to have a healthy, beautiful smile to present to the world; we’ll help you create it, one tooth at a time. Call Long Island Endodontics to make your appointment today.
