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 Dr. Cunningham 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 above 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
What should I expect after an apicoectomy?
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, appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our office.
Are You Ready to Find the Relief You Deserve?
Contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment to reclaim your smile today!
Kevin P. Cunningham, DDS, LLC
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great explanation of procedure as it was occurring. Very gentle and pleasant Dr.
- Cynthia L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I am 68 and this was the best experience I have had with a dental procedure. I routinely go to my dentist twice a year and have well over a hundred dental visits. Dr. Cunningham has a great, reassuring, caring demeanor and demonstrated great knowledge and care in my treatment. He showed Xray results explaining clearly what they showed and the treatments that were indicated; one tooth needed a root canal and and an adjoining tooth needed apicoetomy. The additional 3D xray indicates that my wisdom teeth are so deeply embedded that they are a major cause of the recurring infections that I experience. Dr Cunningham performed the necessary root canal and apicoetomy and promptly referred results to my regular dentist (so my replacement crown can be scheduled). The two procedures were virtually completely comfortable. The only thing I felt was a very minor tinge when anesthetic was injected into the roof of my mouth. This was the best and most comfortable experience I have ever had, even better than routing exams and treatment. I have had many good experiences with my other dentists over the years and this one is simply the best. Dr, Cunningham and his staff are caring, reassuring, informative and exemplary providers of dental care. I highly recommend them.
- Gregory C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Cunningham and his staff were very professional and made my procedure very pleasant.
- Christy G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Wonderful office staff & assistant, gave great overview of procedure , pain free and very concerned with patient comfort,
- Karen M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone in the office was very nice and helpful. Dr Cunningham did a great job and I would definitely go back to him for future work.
- Janelle A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Cunningham and his staff were very courteous and professional. The procedure went very smoothly and Dr. Cunningham was very conscientious to ask if i was having any pain. The surgery was a breeze, believe it or not.
- Cynthia T
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Cunningham and his staff made a very unpleasant surgery as painless as possible.
- Lynn B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was so impressed with the friendliness of ALL staff members. Everyone - especially Dr. Cunningham - made me feel very at ease before, during and after my procedure. Dr. Cunningham did a great job of educating me on what my situation was and how to go about treating it. I don't think I could have been more relaxed and comfortable going into my procedure. Really - I can't say enough about how much I like this practice.
- Krista M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
excellant staff and doctor very above board and very accomadating
- kenneth w
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thanks for taking such great care of me.
- Melissa H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Kevin and his staff are top notch. They are professional and kind. I can't say enough great things about this staff.
- Jodie B