The Role of Apical Surgery

Tooth infections are one of the biggest threats to the health of your teeth. When bacteria invades the root canal of a tooth, the inner chamber containing softer tissue, a serious infection can develop that requires treatment in order to save the tooth. But to save the tooth it is sometimes necessary to get to the root of the problem, literally. This is where apical surgery plays a crucial role in treating chronic root canal infections. 

What is Apical Surgery? 

Apical surgery, also known as an apicoectomy, is a surgical endodontic procedure that treats the root of the tooth to block the source of infection. Bacteria may enter the root canal through the root of the tooth under the gums. When this occurs the best way to treat the tooth is to surgically access the root and remove the damaged tip, the apex. Any infected tissue is removed from in or around the root and a filling is placed at the tip of the root to seal it off from further bacterial invasion. 

Apical Surgery vs Root Canal 

An infected tooth can sometimes be treated with root canal therapy, which is a non-surgical procedure. A small hole is made in the crown of the tooth that is used to access the root canal, clean out the soft tissue inside, then fill it with a replacement material. This procedure is effective for tooth infections that are caused by large cavities or cracks in the crown of the tooth. 

However, in cases where the bacteria enters through the root, apical surgery is required. This allows the endodontist to get to the source of the infection, remove diseased tissue, and place a filling to protect the root. 

Benefits of Apical Surgery 

Is it worth getting apical surgery to save a tooth? Here are a few of the major benefits: 

• Save the natural tooth. Apical surgery can often save your natural tooth, allowing it to remain in place in your mouth for function and cosmetic purposes. 
• Avoid costly dental prosthetics. Replacing a tooth with a prosthetic is a more costly procedure than apical surgery in most cases. 
• Save time. Apical surgery takes less time than extracting and replacing a tooth. 
• Keep your teeth in proper alignment. By keeping your natural tooth in place your other teeth remain in proper alignment. 
• Eliminate a painful infection. Apical surgery can relieve the pain that results from an infected tooth. 
• Prevent future infection. The filling placed after apical surgery can prevent future infection in the same tooth. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Apical Surgery 

How long does an apicoectomy last? 

An apicoectomy is good for at least 10 years on average, but most of the time the tooth will last much longer. The filling placed on the tip of the root protects the tooth from further bacterial invasion, which can keep the tooth healthy for the long term. 

How long will it take to heal after apical surgery? 

The gum tissue will typically heal within 2-3 weeks of the procedure. Your sutures should dissolve after a week or so, but can be removed by your endodontist if necessary. You can resume your normal daily activities within 24-48 hours following your procedure, but you may need to eat a soft diet and avoid the area with your toothbrush. 

Who Provides Apical Surgery? 

Apical Surgery is typically performed by an endodontist who specializes in treating and preventing tooth infections. Advanced Endodontics provides both surgical and non-surgical procedures to preserve the health of your teeth and smile. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.