We are trained in saving teeth via microsurgical intervention if non-surgical options are unavailable.
Why would I need endodontic surgery?
Some reasons you may need surgery include:
- Sometimes the root canal is too narrow for the instruments used in retreatment to reach the end of the root. If your tooth has this “calcification,” surgery can clean and seal the remainder of the canal.
- There may be a persistent type of bacteria that is not cleaned with standard root canal therapy.
- There may be other factors, such as a large post, that prevents retreating the tooth.
- If there is a possible root fracture, we may examine the root surgically to evaluate for extraction.
What is an apicoectomy?
What happens during an apicoectomy
An apicoectomy, also called a root-end resection, is the most common type of endodontic surgery. It’s done with local anesthetic, so the area is numb throughout. Using magnification, the endodontist:
- Makes a small opening in the gum tissue near the tooth to reach the bone underneath
- Removes the inflamed or infected tissue around the root tip
- Removes the very end of the root
- Places a small filling to seal the end of the root canal
- Closes the gum with a few stitches so it can heal
Over the following months, the bone heals around the end of the root.
Recovery
Some mild discomfort and swelling are normal for a few days while the gums heal. We’ll recommend pain relief and give you clear aftercare instructions. Most people return to work and their normal routine the next day. If your pain isn’t controlled by the medication we recommend, or you have any concerns, call us.
Other surgical options
Depending on the tooth, other procedures may be a better fit, such as repairing a damaged root, removing one root of a multi-rooted tooth, or carefully removing the tooth, treating it, and placing it back in its socket. We’ll explain which option makes sense for you and why.
Surgery or extraction?
When a tooth can’t be saved, it has to be removed and replaced with an implant, bridge or partial denture to keep your bite working and keep nearby teeth from shifting. Endodontic surgery is often a simpler and less costly way to keep your natural tooth. No procedure is guaranteed, so we’ll talk through the expected outcome and your options before you decide.
Schedule a visit
Call us at (801) 901-6095 or contact us. If you’re in pain, tell us when you call and we’ll get you in as soon as possible.