Apicoectomy
Wylie, Texas
This article explains apicoectomy, a surgical endodontic procedure. The treatment involves the surgical removal of the apex, or tip, of a tooth's root to address infections that persist after root canal therapy.
The procedure targets cases where pain or inflammation return following initial treatment. The dentist accesses the affected area through a gum incision, removes millimeters from the root tip, cleans infected tissue, and seals the root before closing the incision with dissolving sutures.
Common symptoms indicating need for this surgery include pain, which can be mild or very intense, sensitivity to temperature or pressure, abscess formation, gum swelling, and persistent bad breath. Untreated infections can destroy tooth, gum, and bone tissue, making prompt treatment essential for preserving dental health.
Post-operative care involves pain management with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication or prescription alternatives, plus prescribed antibiotics as needed.
