You must have heard of the dreaded root canal, and you may be hoping you never need one. But, it is a common procedure that can help you retain your natural teeth longer. Unfortunately, a root canal does not always solve the problem. That's where an apicoectomy comes in. Let's learn more about what is an apicoectomy and why you may need it?
What is an Apicoectomy?
It is a minor surgical procedure that most dental surgeons use after a root canal did not bring the desired results for healing a tooth infection. A root canal will always be your oral surgeon's first choice as it is less invasive. Moreover, it requires less time for healing. However, a root canal may not always work, and that's when you have to schedule an apicoectomy.
Your oral surgeon may schedule an apicoectomy if your natural tooth is still preserved (because it is always better for your oral health to have natural teeth for longer). However, you are at risk of losing your tooth due to infection.
During the procedure, the surgeon starts by opening the gums to remove any infected tissue. Moreover, it also requires the removal of the root. In the next step, your surgeon will set in a small filling and seal the root. Furthermore, you may need a few stitches that facilitate the healing process. Since the procedure is more invasive than a root canal, it takes longer to heal, and the period may last for a couple of months.
5 Reasons You May Need an Apicoectomy
Your oral surgeon will typically start your treatment with a root canal first. But if the procedure doesn't treat the infection and fix the toothache, they may recommend an apicoectomy. Some of the reasons you may need an apicoectomy are :
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Tooth pain persists after root canal,
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Calcification that is likely to make root canal difficult and more painful,
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A tooth that is re-infected sometime after a root canal,
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The root’s surface or the surrounding bone is not in good health, and
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Persistent infection and inflammation after a root canal.
If you have had a root canal procedure and are still experiencing pain and discomfort, it may be time to get in touch with Young Jun, DDS, MD, FACS at Placentia Oral Surgery and schedule an apicoectomy. For more information on this or other oral surgery procedures that we offer, call us now at (657) 216-1617.
Young Jun DDS MD FACS, 601 E. Yorba Linda Blvd. #9, Placentia, CA 92870 • (657) 216-1617 • placentiaoralsurgery.com • 12/20/2024 • Related Phrases: dental implants Placentia CA •
You must have heard of the dreaded root canal, and you may be hoping you never need one. But, it is a common procedure that can help you retain your natural teeth longer. Unfortunately, a root canal does not always solve the problem. That's where an apicoectomy comes in. Let's learn more about what is an apicoectomy and why you may need it?