Learn How an Apicoectomy Can Save Your Tooth

When a tooth has damage or decay, your dentist may have performed several surgeries to try and save the tooth. Sometimes, the infection is just too persistent for a traditional root canal. If you have undergone treatment, but the pain of the infected tooth still remains, the board-certified dentists at MINT dentistry may recommend an apicoectomy.

An effective and long-lasting solution, an apicoectomy is an endodontic treatment that removes the infected root tip. An apicoectomy is specially designed to save the tooth from extraction. Learn about apicoectomy procedures by contacting our office for an appointment in Dallas and Houston, TX. We can help you enjoy a healthy smile once again.

What is an apicoectomy?

Also known as a root-end resection, an apicoectomy is performed when your tooth cannot be treated with a conventional root canal. This is a minor procedure in which the infected tissue is removed, along with the tip of the tooth root. An apicoectomy preserves the remaining part of the tooth and prevents future infection. If a patient is not willing to get this procedure, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with an implant. Luckily, the professionals at MINT dentistry are highly trained and skilled at performing this procedure.

Should I get an apicoectomy?

If you have undergone a root canal previously, you will know that a lot of work goes into treating an infected tooth. It could take more than one trip to the dentist to address it. Other times, a tooth can become reinfected due to natural aging or trauma. Patients that suffer from failed root canals often complain of pain, sensitivity, and other issues. In these cases, it may be better to treat the infected tooth with an apicoectomy.

Candidates for endodontic treatment should have a thorough evaluation at MINT dentistry first. Our team uses advanced imaging to evaluate infected teeth and help patients make the right decisions. A root-end resection is performed on healthy adults who can undergo surgery and traditional sedation methods. An apicoectomy may be problematic for pregnant women or patients with certain medical conditions.

Preparing for endodontic treatment

MINT dentistry gives you information about your apicoectomy in the days leading up to your procedure. This endodontic treatment is unique because it is performed through the gums rather than the tooth. To begin, our dentists numb the area with a local anesthetic, and a small incision is made in the gum tissue. Our direct approach allows us to remove any infected tissue quickly and effectively. The area is disinfected, and a special dye may be used to highlight any other concerns. After the root is sealed, the gums are sutured so the healing process can begin.

What happens after endodontic treatment?

Following a root-end resection, it is important to take care of your teeth and follow any aftercare tips from our staff. This includes avoiding hard or chewy foods and brushing your teeth gently around the incision site. MINT dentistry may write prescriptions for antibiotics or pain medication to make recovery easier. We may ask you to have a follow-up appointment in 2 – 7 days to make sure healing is going as planned. It takes about two weeks to recover from your apicoectomy in Dallas and Houston, TX.

Save your tooth with an apicoectomy

Advances in dental technology have made endodontic treatment easier and more efficient than ever. If you have undergone unsuccessful root canal procedures in the past, MINT dentistry can save your tooth through a root-end resection. Want to learn how an apicoectomy can preserve your teeth and make your smile better than ever? Reach out to our team for an in-person assessment and consultation. Our dental clinic is proud to have helped countless patients in the Dallas and Houston, TX area.