What is Root End Surgery?
Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?
Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. However, this non-surgical procedure will occasionally be insufficient to eliminate the infection and the tooth may require surgical intervention if it is to be saved. Endodontic surgery can also be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays but still manifest pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure. The most common surgery used to save failing root canal treated teeth is an apicoectomy, or root-end resection.
What is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy involves removing the last few millimeters from the end of the roots of a failing root canal treated tooth. An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and surrounding inflamed tissue. The damaged tissue is removed along with the end of the root tip. A root-end filling is placed to prevent reinfection of the root and the gum is sutured. The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months restoring full function.
Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To alleviate any discomfort, an appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our office.
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Apicoectomy in Boston, MA
If you think you may need an apicoectomy in the Boston area, please call our office to schedule a consultation, (617) 236-7818.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Root Canals
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