Apicoectomy
Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?
Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, this non-surgical procedure will not be sufficient to heal the tooth and your endodontist will 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 the right 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.
1. Infected Tissue
2. Tissue Removed
3. Suture Placed
4. Healing Complete
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.
Southwest Michigan Endodontics
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Entire experience was very surprising! I had a great deal of anxiety heading into appt. Reception was so kind and efficient when both checking in & checking out. Dental assistant was EXTREMELY helpful in calming me, providing immediate confidence of what will happen today and what I could expect before procedure even started. She had a sweet spirit that made me feel very cared for and is much appreciated. Dr additionally was immediately warming and talked me through each step of the procedure which eased my worries! This was hands down my very best dental experience ever!! Thank you for everything!
- Susan A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Went very well
- Randy G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Exceeded my expectations.
- Tony M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Excellent experience
- Kevin K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great all around.
- Reynaldo P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone was sooooooooooo patient with me. I was EXTREMELY scared. Hadn't been to denist in 20 years due to my fear. But I am so glad I was referred here. I will definitely come back for further work needed. Thank so much! I would refer ANYONE to this office! I used the headphones but I was esp comforted by the doc humming and singing. Truly comforted me.
- Maryanne F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Quick procedure and friendly environment! No pain like I was anticipating! !
- Alex M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very kind,caring,friendly my experience was wonderful would recommend this practice to anyone.
- Charlotte R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Allen and Jennifer were great! Very gentle and caring. Made me feel very comfortable! Thank you very much! Would recommend you to anyone!
- Mary J
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Wonderful experience, they are top notch. I would highly recommend.
- Angela W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very pleased with care taken. Not a bad experience!
- Chris P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Oh,he was awesome n so careful n considerate of the pain I was n with my tooth ache. I would recommend him for r. Any tooth procedure. The staff was so nice n made me feel so comfortable.
- Virginia K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
It was a great experience. Very quick and painless.
- Blake B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
All good
- Joyce Y
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Was over quickly and painlessly
- Dawn A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Best care possible! Great staff and wonderful care
- Rebecca B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great service.
- Jack B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Friendly nice professional
- Richard B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
.
- Wes S