What is an apicoectomy and how is it performed?

What is an apicoectomy and how is it performed?

An apicoectomy may include your dental professional: 1 Injecting local anesthetic to numb the area around your infected tissue 2 Opening gum tissue around your affected tooth 3 Removing inflamed or infected tissue along with the tip of your root 4 Sealing the end of your root with a filling 5 Applying a few stitches or sutures to aid your healing

Do you need an apicoectomy after a root canal?

According to the American Association of Endodontists, they may place a cap to seal the end of your root. Your dental professional will likely only recommend an apicoectomy after one or multiple root canals or when other circumstances (like having a bridge) prevent root canal treatment.

What causes apical surgery to fail?

One 2011 study showed that the main cause of apical surgery failure is a gap in the filling at the end of the root. This causes bacteria to leak back into the tooth. An apicoectomy is a routine outpatient surgical procedure that’s performed when standard root canal therapy isn’t enough to save a tooth.

What is the success rate of apical surgery?

Another 2020 study found that apical surgery was a reliable way to preserve teeth affected by infection or other problems at the root, with a 91.4 percent success rate after 1 year. On rare occasions, you may experience further infection or nerve damage.

What are the best tips for post apicoectomy aftercare?

When you pull your lip away from the gum to peek, you risk loosening or tearing your stitches. Other post apicoectomy aftercare tips include: Depending on the location of the apicoectomy and the infection level in the root area, you may be prescribed antibiotics and decongestants.

How do you clean your tongue after apicoectomy?

Use a tongue brush or tool to clean your tongue and the roof of your mouth if possible. Wear comfortable clothes so you can relax while reclined during your apicoectomy procedure. The surgery can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes to complete under normal circumstances.