Apicoectomy

If you’ve had a root canal but you’re still experiencing throbbing pain and/or sensitivity to heat or touch when chewing, you could have a residual infection at the tip of your tooth’s root. If it progresses, it may cause fever, sinus pain and swollen lymph nodes. If not treated, the infection can also spread throughout your body and result in the loss of the tooth. If you’re a candidate, our Foley apicoectomy procedure can help save your tooth if an infection persists following a traditional root canal. Contact us at (251) 320-3205 to schedule a visit.

What is an
Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure that may be necessary if the tooth’s root is still infected after endodontic treatment. Dr. Miller creates a small opening in the gum tissue above the tooth. She then removes the infected tissue, as well as the very tip of the tooth’s root. She cleans the area and may place a small filling to seal the root. Finally, she closes the gum tissue with sutures and allows it to heal. With the infection gone, your tooth will regain its normal function.

Benefits of an Apicoectomy

01. Saves Your Natural Tooth

In many cases, an apicoectomy can help save your natural tooth.

02. Eliminates Pain

Once the infection is gone, your throbbing pain and sensitivity will stop.

03. Prevents Infection from Spreading

Removing the infection prevents it from spreading throughout the body.

Treatment Considerations

Dr. Miller will examine you and determine if your natural tooth can be saved with endodontic surgery. The healing time from an apicoectomy will depend on how severe your infection was. It can take several months to a year for the bone to fully heal around the end of the tooth’s root.

Apicoectomy

Whether you have aesthetic or oral health concerns, we’ve got you covered. Schedule a visit to meet with our Foley oral surgeon.