Sometimes, even after a root canal, a tooth just doesn’t heal the way we hope. That’s where an apicoectomy comes in—a precise, minimally invasive procedure designed to remove lingering infection and give your tooth a second chance.
At Roman Dental Arts, Dr. Donald Roman and Dr. Alissa Roman understand the importance of preserving your natural teeth. With decades of combined expertise and a compassionate approach, we’re proud to offer advanced apicoectomy services to help you stay smiling. Our comprehensive endodontic services focus on preserving your natural smile whenever possible, and an apicoectomy is one of the most effective ways to save a tooth when traditional treatments haven’t provided the healing you need.
What Is an Apicoectomy?
Think of an apicoectomy as a “root tip rescue.” When infection persists at the very end of a tooth’s root—even after a root canal—this procedure allows us to gently remove the infected tissue and seal the area to prevent future problems.
Unlike a root canal, which treats the tooth from the top down, an apicoectomy approaches the issue from the gum side. A small incision is made in the gum to clean out the infection and seal the root tip, all while keeping you comfortable and informed every step of the way.
Who Needs an Apicoectomy and When?
Not everyone needs an apicoectomy, but certain situations make this treatment particularly beneficial. You may be a good candidate if you have a tooth with persistent infection despite previous root canal treatment, especially when the tooth structure remains strong and healthy above the gum line.
We also consider this option when you have adequate bone support around the affected tooth and when extraction would require more complex replacement procedures. Your overall health, healing capacity, and commitment to follow-up care all play important roles in determining if apicoectomy is right for you.
If you’ve had a root canal but are still experiencing the following symptoms, an apicoectomy might be the solution you need to finally achieve lasting relief:
- Persistent pain or sensitivity
- Swelling near the affected tooth
- Recurring abscesses or a bad taste in your mouth
This treatment is especially helpful when retreating the root canal isn’t possible due to complex root anatomy or previous dental work, like crowns or posts.
Apicoectomy Process at Roman Dental Arts
We know surgery can sound intimidating—but we’re here to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team takes time to explain each step of the process and answer all your questions before beginning treatment.
Here’s how the procedure works:
- Comfort First: We start with local anesthesia to ensure you’re relaxed and pain-free.
- Precise Care: A small flap is made in the gum to access the root tip. We remove the infected tissue and seal the root with a biocompatible material.
- Healing Begins: The gum is gently stitched closed, and healing starts right away.
Most procedures take between 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s location and complexity. Our experienced team monitors your comfort throughout the entire process to ensure the best possible experience.
Our Advanced Approach
At Roman Dental Arts, we use modern techniques and materials to ensure the best possible outcome for your apicoectomy. We employ precise surgical instruments and biocompatible sealing materials that promote healing and prevent future infection.
Our approach focuses on preserving as much healthy tissue as possible while thoroughly addressing the problematic area. This conservative method helps maintain the structural integrity of your tooth and surrounding tissues, supporting long-term success.
Recovery & Aftercare
You may experience mild swelling or discomfort for a few days—this is completely normal. We’ll provide personalized aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly and comfortably. Most patients are back to their routine within a few days.
During the healing process, we recommend eating soft foods, avoiding vigorous rinsing, and taking prescribed medications as directed. Ice packs can help manage any swelling, and we’re always available to address any concerns during your recovery period.
Comparing Your Options
While tooth extraction might seem like a simpler solution, preserving your natural tooth through apicoectomy offers significant advantages. Natural teeth provide better chewing function and maintain the structural integrity of your jawbone. They also eliminate the need for more complex and costly replacement procedures, such as dental implants or bridges.
When comparing apicoectomy to root canal retreatment, this surgical approach often provides more direct access to the problematic area, especially when previous dental work makes retreatment challenging or impossible.
Long-Term Success
Apicoectomies have a high success rate, and with proper care and follow-up, your treated tooth can stay healthy and functional for many years. The procedure effectively eliminates infection while preserving your natural tooth structure, contributing to your overall oral health and comfort.
Regular dental visits help us monitor the healing process and ensure long-term success. Most patients find that their treated tooth functions normally and remains comfortable for decades after the procedure.
Why Choose Roman Dental Arts?
We’re not just dental professionals; we’re a family practice that treats every patient like part of our extended family. Whether you’re dealing with post-root canal complications or just want to explore your options, we’re here to guide you with honesty, expertise, and genuine care.
Dr. Donald Roman brings decades of experience to every procedure, while Dr. Alissa Roman represents the next generation of advanced dental care. Together, they combine time-tested techniques with the latest innovations in dental medicine. Our team’s approach ensures you receive comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs.
Schedule Your Apicoectomy Consultation at Roman Dental Arts
Don’t let persistent tooth pain affect your quality of life. Our experienced team at Roman Dental Arts is ready to evaluate your situation and determine if apicoectomy is the right solution for you. We take the time to explain all your options and help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
From our comfortable office environment to our gentle chairside manner, we’re committed to making your treatment experience as positive as possible. Call us today at (201) 843-0440 or schedule your consultation to find out if apicoectomy is right for you. Let’s work together to save your tooth and restore your comfort.
