Apicoectomy in Brooklyn, NY
WHAT’S AN APICOECTOMY AND WHY DO I NEED IT?
Occasionally, a root canal procedure is not sufficient to heal a tooth, and surgery is required. The most common surgical procedure used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy. An apicoectomy procedure can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on X-rays, but still cause pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this particular type of procedure.
WHAT TO EXPECT
During an apicoectomy, an incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and surrounding infected tissue. The damaged tissue is removed along with the root tip, and a root-end filling is then placed to prevent reinfection of the root. The bone will then naturally heal around the root.
Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort or swelling as the incision heals. To alleviate any discomfort, appropriate medication will be prescribed. If the pain persists, please call our office at (718) 398-1969.
