Apicoectomy in Houston, TX

Apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, is a dental procedure performed by an oral surgeon or an endodontist. It is typically recommended when a root canal treatment fails or cannot be performed for various reasons. At A+ Dental Specialists, during a root canal treatment, the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth is removed, and the canals are cleaned, shaped, and filled. In some cases, however, the infection persists or reoccurs despite conventional root canal therapy. In such situations, an apicoectomy may be considered. 

The Apicoectomy Procedure

• The area around the affected tooth is numbed using a local anesthetic to ensure a painless procedure. 
• The surgeon creates a small incision in the gum tissue near the tooth to expose the underlying bone and root tip. 
• The infected or inflamed tissue at the tip of the tooth's root, known as the apex, is carefully removed. 
• A small portion of the root tip and any nearby infected or damaged tissue are resected or removed. The root canal is also cleaned and reshaped if necessary. 
• A biocompatible material, typically a dental-grade filling material such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), is placed to seal the root end and prevent further infection. 
• The incision made in the gum tissue is sutured, promoting healing. 
• The surrounding bone and tissues heal over the following weeks and months, integrating with the root-end filling. 

Benefits of the Apicoectomy Procedure

Preservation of the Natural Tooth 

The primary benefit of an apicoectomy is the ability to save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction. Preserving the natural tooth is usually preferred as it helps maintain the dental arch's integrity and prevents the need for tooth replacement with prosthetic options like dental implants or bridges. 

Effective Treatment for Persistent Infection

An apicoectomy is often recommended when a previous root canal treatment fails, and the condition persists or recurs. By removing the infected or inflamed tissue at the root’s tip and sealing the root’s end, an apicoectomy can effectively eliminate the source of infection, promoting healing and preventing further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues. 

Preservation of Bone and Gum Tissue 

Unlike tooth extraction, which can lead to bone resorption and gum recession over time, an apicoectomy aims to preserve the surrounding bone and gum tissue. Removing only the infected portion of the root tip and sealing the root end leaves the healthy bone and gum tissue intact, promoting better oral health and aesthetics. 

Minimally Invasive Procedure

An apicoectomy is a relatively minor surgical procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia in a dental office setting. It typically involves a small incision and minimal disruption to the surrounding tissues, resulting in a quicker recovery than more extensive surgical interventions. 

Not all cases are suitable for apicoectomy, and the decision to undergo this procedure should be made in consultation with a dental specialist. Visit A+ Dental Specialists at 9968 Bellaire Blvd, Ste 170, Houston, TX 77036, or call (713) 774-2100 for the best dental care.