Decay and infection can take down even the most resilient of teeth. Fortunately, a root canal is often the solution you need to protect your teeth from further damage and to save your smile. However, there are some rare cases in which infected tissue within the tooth remains in the tips of the canals, making it almost impossible to heal. If this happens, then our Lexington endodontist Dr. Ramzi Antoine Sarkis may recommend an apicoectomy.
What is an apicoectomy?
This endodontic treatment is designed to treat a dental infection that will not go away with traditional root canal treatment. During this procedure, the apex, or tip of the root is removed along with any infected tissue to preserve the rest of the tooth and prevent a future infection or need for a tooth extraction.
When is an apicoectomy recommended?
If you’ve had a root canal in the past and the same tooth has become infected again, this can often be because the apex of the root, where small branches come off the main canal, still have bacteria. When this happens, your Lexington dentist will recommend another root canal. If root canal retreatment is unsuccessful or not recommended, then an apicoectomy is the next best option.
How is it done?
After administration of adequate local anesthesia a tiny incision is made in the gums and the gums are carefully lifted away from the tooth. Lexington endodontist Dr. Ramzi Sarkis is highly trained in, and also teaches, microscopic surgery will use ultrasonic instruments to access the root of the tooth disinfect and seal the canal. The use of the dental operating microscope and ultrasonic instruments is critical to the success of the apicoectomy. X-rays will also be taken before the gums are stitched back up. This procedure takes anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes depending on which tooth is being treated and how severe your condition is. Front teeth often take the shortest amount of time to treat, while molars take the longest time.
Whether you are experiencing dental pain or you just need to schedule a consult or get a second opinion, turn to the dental professionals at Lexington Endodontics to keep your smile preserved for life.