Apicoectomy SOUTH MIAMI, FL

Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?

On occasion, conventional root canal treatment is not enough. If so you may be a candidate for Endodontic Microsurgery. Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. Unfortunately, many factors can exist which may prevent adequate healing, and ultimately, the success of your treatment. In this case, your endodontist may recommend surgery. Endodontic surgery can 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 damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.

What is an Apicoectomy?

The video on this page illustrates this simple procedure. 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. In some cases, additional grafting procedures are done to aid in the healing of the bone and overlying tissues.

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, appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our South Miami office at FDG Endo South Miami Phone Number 305-666-6104.