When a root canal treatment isn’t enough to save a tooth, you might hear the word “apicoectomy.” While it sounds complex, this procedure is a highly effective tool in modern endodontics, designed to resolve persistent infection and preserve your natural tooth. At Cascade Endodontics, we use advanced technology to ensure this treatment is as comfortable and successful as possible for our patients throughout Orem, Provo, and the greater Utah County area.
Under the care of our highly trained specialist, Dr. Jon Jenson, you are in expert hands. Dr. Jenson is a respected member of the American Dental Association, the Utah Dental Association, the Utah Association of Endodontics, and the American Association of Endodontists. His commitment to utilizing the latest techniques ensures you receive the highest standard of care.
Why Would I Need an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, is typically recommended when inflammation or infection persists in the bony area around the end of your tooth after a root canal procedure. This can happen for a few reasons:
- Complex Root Anatomy: Some teeth have tiny, intricate canals that are difficult to clean completely during a standard root canal.
- Persistent Infection: Bacteria may remain at the very tip of the root, causing ongoing issues.
- A Cyst or Damaged Root Surface: Sometimes a cyst forms at the root tip, or the root surface itself is damaged, requiring direct treatment.
Thanks to significant advancements, an apicoectomy is no longer a procedure to fear. Modern endodontics has transformed this surgery, leading to much higher success rates. We now use operating microscopes to get a highly magnified view of the root tip, allowing for incredible precision. Specialized ultrasonic instruments are used to clean and seal the end of the root more effectively than ever before, preventing reinfection and promoting healing.
What Is Involved with an Apicoectomy?
If Dr. Jenson determines an apicoectomy is the right solution for you, the process is straightforward. First, the area will be completely numbed to ensure you are comfortable. A small incision is made in the gum tissue near the tooth to expose the underlying bone and the infected root tip.
The infected tissue is carefully removed along with the very end of the root. A small filling is then placed at the end of the root canal to seal it completely, and the gum tissue is sutured back into place. The entire procedure is performed with meticulous care to promote rapid and successful healing.
Following the surgery, Dr. Jenson will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. He may also recommend pain medication to manage any discomfort as the area heals. Our team at Cascade Endodontics is dedicated to supporting you through every step, helping you save your natural tooth and restore your oral health.