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Apicoectomy

Apicoectomy is a surgical procedure removing the tip of a tooth root and surrounding infected tissue when standard root canal treatment is ineffective.

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What is an apicoectomy?

The hallmark symptom indicating inflammation in the tissues surrounding the tooth root is typically heightened pain during biting. This persistent pain is often accompanied by cheek swelling, noticeable bulges on the gum, and a subfebrile state. The nature of the pain, whether mild or pulsating, depends on the type of tissue inflammation. Periapical inflammation is the body’s response to the presence of bacteria in the root canal, leading to the formation of inflammatory tissue in the vicinity of the root apex.

Apicoectomy Procedure

When conventional root canal retreatment is not viable or periapical lesions resist such intervention, the sole recourse is apical root resection.

This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The resection entails the removal of the root fragment containing the uncleaned and unfilled portion of the canal. The surgeon, during the process, exposes the bone by opening soft tissues around the root, extracting infected or inflamed tissue, including the root tip. To seal the end of the duct, a specialized cement (MTA) or amalgam is employed. Post-surgery, significant bone loss often occurs, necessitating supplementation with bone substitute biomaterial and protection with a designated membrane.

Following apicoectomy surgery, akin to any surgical intervention, minor pain and swelling may manifest. Typically, these symptoms subside within a few days. However, should you experience prolonged or escalating pain, swelling, bleeding, or fever, it is advisable to promptly reach out to your dentist for guidance.

To learn more about an apicoectomy at Oral Surgery Specialists of New York and find out if it’s right for you, schedule an appointment by phone or online today.
Book Appointment(718) 739 1300

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia is typically reserved for surgical complex procedures like orthognathic (jaw) surgery or facial trauma, as it induces complete unconsciousness. This form of anesthesia is commonly administered in a hospital setting and requires intubation during the procedure.

IV Sedation

IV sedation is administered via the arm or hand, inducing a rapid transition to a sleep-like state for patients. With this type of anesthesia, you will be partially or even fully asleep and will likely forget the entirety of the procedure. If IV sedation is chosen, it’s necessary for an adult to accompany you and drive you home following the procedure.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, is a gentle sedative administered through a mask placed over the mouth and nose. This gas effectively alleviates anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures, ensuring patients feel at ease and relaxed. The patient is able to interact with the doctor and respond to any directions or questions.

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia involves injecting medication directly into the surgical site to numb the area. This ensures your comfort throughout the procedure, and the numbing effect typically subsides within a few hours. Additionally, local anesthesia can be used in conjunction with other anesthesia methods.