Apicoectomy Blacklick & Westerville

At Columbus Endodontic Specialists, our team is fully equipped to provide apicoectomy procedures to treat existing endodontic issues and prevent future problems. We aim to save natural teeth, restore function, and eliminate pain or discomfort.

What is an Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy, called root end surgery, involves the removal of a tooth’s root tip and is a minor surgical procedure performed by our endodontists (a root canal specialist). This procedure is typically recommended when a previous root canal treatment hasn’t been entirely successful in eliminating an infection or inflammation at the end of the root.

An apicoectomy involves accessing the tip of the root, removing any infected or inflamed tissue, and sometimes prescribing antibiotics to help stop an infection. Then, the end of the root canal is sealed to prevent reinfection. This helps preserve the natural tooth and avoids the need for extraction.

Why Do I Need this Procedure?

While a simple non-surgical root canal procedure can save many patients’ infected teeth, there are some cases where more complex treatment is necessary. If inflammation or infection persists in the bony area around the end of the root, an apicoectomy is recommended after a root canal treatment. This surgical procedure allows our dentists at Columbus Endodontic Specialists to locate minor fractures or hidden root canals that might not appear on X-ray images but cause pain, sensitivity, and discomfort.

Other reasons an apicoectomy may be necessary include:

• Removal of calcium deposits in root canals
• Treating damaged root surfaces and surrounding bone
• Addressing infections that did not heal after initial root canal therapy

Apicoectomy has high success rates in saving teeth and preventing further complications.

The Apicoectomy Procedure

During an apicoectomy, our endodontists at Columbus Endodontic Specialists will first ensure your comfort by applying local anesthesia. The gum tissue near the affected tooth is then carefully opened to access the underlying bone and remove any inflamed or infected tissue. The tip of the root is also removed, and a small filling may be placed to seal the end of the root canal system. Finally, a few stitches or sutures are placed to help the tissue heal properly.

Thanks to advanced technologies like digital imaging and operating microscopes, our team can perform apicoectomies with high success rates, ensuring the best possible outcome for your oral health.

What to Expect After Treatment

Apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure typically completed in a single appointment. Most patients return to their normal activities the following day. As the mouth heals, mild discomfort, minor bleeding, and swelling are common. Our team will provide appropriate pain medication, such as ibuprofen, and post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Healing occurs over months as the bone regenerates around the treated area. Please contact our office for further evaluation if you experience extreme pain or unusual symptoms.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

An apicoectomy may be the best solution if you have undergone a root canal procedure but continue to experience tooth pain or inflammation. Our dentists at Columbus Endodontic Specialists are here to provide expert care to help preserve your natural teeth and relieve discomfort. Contact us today at 847-318-0066 to schedule your consultation in Blacklick or Westerville.