Apicoectomy in San Antonio, TX
As a leading endodontist in San Antonio, TX, our endodontist and the team at Hearthstone Dental Specialists are committed to providing patients with the highest quality of endodontic care. If you’re experiencing pain or swelling in your tooth after a root canal treatment, you may need an apicoectomy. Our team of experienced professionals offers expert apicoectomy services to help you get back to optimal oral health.
Endodontic Dentistry: What is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a common endodontic procedure that is also known as a root-end resection. It is usually recommended when a patient has a previous root canal treatment that has failed or if there is an infection in the root tip. During an apicoectomy, the endodontist removes the tip of the root, cleans the infected area, and seals it to prevent further infection.
When is an Apicoectomy Needed?
An apicoectomy is needed when a tooth that has had a root canal treatment fails to heal or continues to have pain or swelling. Other reasons for needing an apicoectomy include root fractures or hidden canals that were not treated during the initial root canal procedure. Your endodontist will evaluate your situation and recommend an apicoectomy if it is necessary.
The Apicoectomy Procedure
The apicoectomy procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. The endodontist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the root tip. The infected tissue is then removed, and the root tip is cleaned and shaped to receive a filling. The endodontist then seals the end of the root with a small filling, and the gum tissue is sutured back in place.
After the Procedure
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs. You should avoid strenuous activity and eat soft foods for a few days. Your endodontist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check the healing process and remove the sutures if necessary.
Expert Apicoectomy in San Antonio, TX
At Hearthstone Dental Specialists, we are proud to offer expert endodontic care in San Antonio, TX. With years of experience in performing apicoectomies, you can trust us to provide you with the best possible care. If you need an apicoectomy or have any questions about the procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment.