Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy)

Generally, root canal treatment is all that is needed to repair your injured tooth.  Occasionally, the root canal procedure will not be sufficient to completely eliminate the problem.  If the tooth is not healing we may suggest a surgical treatment.  Endodontic surgery can be used to remove persistent infections, locate fractures or treat hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays but cause 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 damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.

 

Endodontic Surgery known as Apicoectomy, starts with an incision in the gum tissue to expose the damaged tooth and/or bone.  The damaged portion of bone or root is removed and the surrounding areas are cleaned.  Sometimes a root-end filling is placed at the end of the root to prevent re-infection.  The gum is sutured back in place.  The bone will heal naturally over the next few months.  We will closely monitor you and your tooth during this time.

 

Following this procedure you may expect some discomfort, swelling and possibly bruising of the surrounding area.  This is normal after any surgical treatment.  We will guide you through the postoperative healing with specific instructions and medications as needed.  We are only a phone-call away if you have any questions after your surgery.

Yes.  This is a very frequently asked question.  For the procedure, you will be given local anesthetic, similar to what you would experience with any other type of dental procedure, such as a crown or filling.  We do have nitrous oxide and oral sedation available, for your comfort and to help with any anxiety you may have.  If this is an option you are interested in, please feel free to let us know when you make your appointment.

Often, the only alternative to endodontic surgery is extraction of the tooth.  The extracted tooth must then be replaced with an implant, bridge, or removable partial denture to restore chewing function and to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.  Because these alternatives require surgery or dental procedures on adjacent healthy teeth, endodontic surgery is usually the most biologic and cost-effective option for maintaining your oral health.

 

No matter how effective modern artificial tooth replacements are—and they can be very effective—nothing is as good as a natural tooth. You’ve already made an investment in saving your tooth.  The pay-off for choosing endodontic surgery could be a healthy, functioning natural tooth for the rest of your life.

 

Endodontic surgery may not always the best option in your situation.  We will not hesitate to recommend other treatment options when they are more appropriate. Dr. Tigrett’s priority is helping you understand all of your options to reach the best possible long-term oral health.  At your consultation, we will discuss all options including endodontic surgery, removal of the tooth and dental implants.

We recommend that you take a combination of an anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) along with acetaminophen (Tylenol) following your procedure.  If you cannot take ibuprofen, than acetaminophen (Tylenol) alone would be the next best thing. In certain instances, Dr. Tigrett will prescribe you an antibiotic, and/or possibly an additional medication for pain.  All instructions regarding medication will be thoroughly reviewed with you before you leave, and you will also be given written instructions.

Ryan Tigrett D.D.S. Diplomate, American Board of Endodontics

We would love to hear from you!

Phone: 707-265-7790
Fax: 707-265-7793
Email: info@endonapa.com

Se Habla Español.

3448 Villa Lane
Suite 101
Napa, CA 94558

 

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We are open five days a week. Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.

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