An apicoectomy is an endodontic surgery that is done to save a tooth that has a persistent infection. Endodontics is the field of dentistry that is focused on the dental pulp, the soft tissue contained mostly within the roots of a tooth. An infection of the dental pulp can result in the loss of the tooth unless it is treated.
Because an apicoectomy is a surgical procedure, you can expect that a brief recovery period will be necessary. How long does it take to recover from an apicoectomy? Here’s what you can expect.
What is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a procedure that involves the removal of the apex, the end tip, of a tooth root. When an infected tooth is treated with a root canal, but the infection persists, an apicoectomy is a potential next step.
The procedure involves making an incision into the gum tissue and accessing the root of the tooth. The tip of the root is removed and the accessible root canal area is thoroughly cleaned out. This area of the canal is filled with a biocompatible material that fortifies the tooth and helps prevent reinfection. Any surrounding infected gum tissue or bone tissue is also removed. The gum tissue is then placed back over the area and sutured.
What is the Average Recovery Time Frame?
Recovery from a surgical procedure can be looked at in two ways: the length of time it takes to return to your daily activities, and the time it takes to be fully healed.
- Return to daily activities: 24-48 hours. You should plan to rest for the remainder of the day following your procedure. You may be ready to return to your normal daily activities such as work or school the next day. Take another day to rest at home if you need it.
- Soft tissues fully healed: 3 weeks. The gum tissue will most likely be fully healed in about 3 weeks. However, you will return to our office for suture removal 5-7 days after surgery so the doctor can check to make sure things are healing well. You can eat normally and brush and floss your teeth at this point in your recovery.
- Bone tissue regeneration: 6 months. In about 6 months the jaw bone tissue will have regenerated to fill the space where the apex of the root was removed, as well as any infected bone tissue.
Is an Apicoectomy Worth It?
Keeping your natural teeth healthy and in place is the ultimate goal of dentistry. When a tooth is in jeopardy, it may be necessary to see a specialist for treatment in order to save the tooth. An endodontist can provide specialized procedures that can save a tooth that may otherwise need to be extracted.
If an apicoectomy is a viable solution, it is worth it to preserve your natural tooth. Having a tooth extracted and leaving a gap in your mouth can cause your other teeth to shift out of place, creating orthodontic and dental health issues. Replacing an extracted tooth is recommended, but expensive. It is in your best interest to have the natural tooth treated and saved if at all possible.
Lindemann Root Canal Specialists Provide Apicoectomy Surgery
If you have a stubborn tooth that hasn’t responded to traditional root canal therapy, it may be time for more intensive treatment. Lindemann Root Canal Specialists can evaluate your tooth and determine the best course of treatment to save it. We provide a wide range of endodontic services, both surgical and non surgical, including apicoectomies. It is our goal to save your natural tooth when possible.
To learn more about our services, call 810-732-7900 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
