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.
Randall D.J. Yee, DDS, MSD, Inc.
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This primary molar in the top part of my mouth had been bothering me on and off for 20 years. 2 root canals and an apiectomy left me with a large infection. Dr. Sakurai's apiectomy was quick and not invasive. I healed well in about 3 days. He found the root that they had missed on the first apiectomy at University of the Pacific. Dr. Sakurai really knows what he is doing. I will go back for any more root canal issues...no more unnecessary pain and suffering. Thank you, Dr. Sakurai!
- Frank R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I am very happy with care and skills of Dr. Sakurai and Lisa. the way they greeted, explained, and conducted procedures with competence and efficiency great appreciated. I was even more assured of the quality of service in my week of recovery. The instructions given for self care and the medications given very appropriate. The overall experience was less stressful and uncomfortable than I imagined. I had no bruising, undetectable swelling, and basically no discomfort, considering they went cut me up around gums to examine roots and bones. Mahalo. Good job.
- nalani a
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
always professional and skilled
- Elsie N