Apical Surgery Specialist

What is apical surgery?

Short for apicoectomy, apical surgery is a minor in-office procedure known as root end surgery because the end of the affected tooth root is removed during the procedure. It’s typically recommended when a traditional root canal fails to clear the infection from the targeted tooth.

A root canal procedure is used to clear infected and inflamed pulp from within a tooth, including the material in the pulp chamber and in the root canals that travels deep into your jawbone.

How is apical surgery different from a traditional root canal?

For traditional root canal surgery, your provider gains access to the infected pulp via a small hole drilled in the top of a molar or back of a front tooth. They remove infected tissue and clean the pulp chamber and root canals, which are then filled with a bio-friendly sealant.

During an apicoectomy, which is performed under local anesthetic to prevent discomfort, Dr. Roach gains access to the infection by making a small incision in the gum tissue near the targeted tooth. This gives him access to the root canal tips.

He uses the Waterlase® dental laser system under 3D magnification to perform the procedure. This minimally invasive approach promotes faster healing. It’s also extremely precise, allowing Dr. Roach to access the small canal tips without damaging surrounding tissue structures. 

After removing the root tip and clearing surrounding tissue infection, Dr. Roach carefully examines the inner canal to check for signs of inflammation or disease. The root tip is then sealed with a small filling and sutures are placed, if necessary, to close the gum tissue. 

If there’s significant damage to the bone tissue surrounding the tooth due to previous infection, Dr. Roach may also use various advanced endodontic techniques to promote faster bone growth and healing.

Apical surgery is quick and highly successful at eliminating infection-related pain and saving the tooth.

Will I need a crown following apical surgery?

If you had a root canal treatment previously and the crown used at that time remains functional, meaning it protects and supports the treated tooth, you shouldn’t need a new crown. 

For more information regarding apical surgery or any treatments offered at RR Dentistry, schedule an evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.