Apicoectomy

If you’ve had a root canal and are experiencing pain, tenderness, or swelling of the gums, it could be a sign that your tooth has become reinfected. Root canals can fail for a number of reasons months or years after the treatment is performed. A retreatment procedure, called an apicoectomy, can be performed to save the tooth if this becomes the case.  

What Is an Apicoectomy?

A root canal is a procedure performed to remove the infected dental pulp inside the tooth. A tooth infection can subsequently occur around the root of the tooth. An apicoectomy, also called a “reverse root canal,” is a minor surgical procedure done to correct a previous root canal that develops an infection. Your endodontist will remove the tip of the tooth root (apex,) and surrounding infected tissue. Doing so eliminates pain and other symptoms and restores tooth health.

Causes and Symptoms of Root Canal Failure

A tooth treated with a root canal can become reinfected with bacteria if the procedure is improperly done. Other causes include a delay in placing the new tooth crown or damage to the crown or filling.

Symptoms are not always present, even though your dentist may detect the infection through an ultrasound exam. When symptoms show up, you may experience the following:

• Sudden tooth discoloration
• A tiny puss-filled bump on the gum
• Funny taste in your mouth
• Persistent tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Swelling or inflammation

Benefits of Apicoectomy

When done by an experienced endodontist in St. Petersburg, FL, the procedure can successfully correct a failed root canal. Dental pain and other discomforting symptoms of the infection go away. The treatment heals the infection, restores tooth health, and ultimately saves your tooth. The risk of reinfection or spread of bacteria also decreases. Overall, the procedure is quick and minimally invasive with little downtime.

How an Endodontist in St. Petersburg FL Performs Apicoectomy

Our endodontist will carry out a detailed evaluation of your affected tooth. The process involves taking X-rays to view the structure under the tooth. After diagnosing a failed root canal, and deciding you are a suitable candidate for apicoectomy, we may proceed with surgery. Medicines, such as antibiotics, may be prescribed to treat inflammation around the tooth before surgery.

We use modern technology and procedures to perform the painless, minimally invasive surgery. Surgery is done under local anesthesia at our endodontic clinic, in St. Petersburg, FL.

The procedure begins with the endodontist surgically cutting and opening the gum near the tooth. This is to gain access to the tooth root and surrounding tissue. Next, the root tip and any inflamed or infected tissue are removed. The surgeon will clean and seal the end of the root canal with dental fillings. Sealing protects the tooth from future infection. The incision in the gum is then stitched close and allowed to heal.

The entire surgical procedure usually takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on factors such as the location of your tooth.

Apicoectomy Risks or Complications

Apicoectomy is considered safe and has a high success rate. However, there are some risks involved. Potential risks include:

• Further infection – You may be given antibiotic treatment after surgery to prevent this from happening.
• Nerve damage – Surgery of the root tip comes with a potential risk of nerve damage.
• Failed apicoectomy – The tooth or tissue fails to heal properly and symptoms persist. However, failure is rare.

Antibiotics may be provided to prevent infection during healing. If an apicoectomy fails, your endodontic expert may perform an additional procedure to help save the tooth. Tooth extraction is a last resort.

Recovery From Apicoectomy

The procedure is less invasive than a root canal. Recovery time is also shorter and less painful. Patients can return to everyday activities within a few days.

Aftercare: Bruising, swelling, or mild discomfort may occur for several days. Following the aftercare tips provided can speed up recovery.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory painkillers may be taken for relief. Patients may apply an ice pack or cold compress to the treated area at intervals for the first 10–12 hours following surgery. Overall, the side effects typically go away within 1–2 weeks.

Follow-up visit: The stitches are removed at a follow-up visit about two to seven days after the procedure. It could take several months for the bone around the end of the root to completely heal.

Contact Root Canals Rock Endodontics

An apicoectomy in St. Petersburg, FL, can help save your tooth. Treatment by our experienced endodontist specializing in this area can enhance your success rate. Call us to schedule a consultation.