Apicoectomy (Endodontic Surgery)

The most common surgery to help save a tooth is called an apicoectomy. When the bony area around your root is inflamed or diseased or if one the your tooth’s roots has a tiny crack that can not be seen on x-ray your dentist may refer you to our office to have an apicoectomy performed.

Apicoectomy Procedure:

1.  In this procedure the doctor will make a Incision through your gum to expose the underlying bone.

2.  He then removes any abscessed or inflamed tissue that could be causing the problem.

3.  At this time he will then cut the tip of the Root off.

4.  Then seal the new end of the root with a specialized bio-compatible material.

5.  The incision is closed with a few sutures to help heal the gum. Over a period of time the bone will heal around the the new end of the root.

Apicoectomy Post-Procedure Care:

1. After leaving our office, rest as much as possible for the next 24-hours.

2. Avoid any strenuous activity for the next few days.

3. Do not skip any meals.  Drink plenty of fluids.  Avoid hot liquids and eat only soft foods (soups, eggs, jell-o, etc) for the next two days.  Avoid chewing in the operated area until the sutures are removed, and avoid hard or chewy foods for one week.

4. In order to keep swelling to a minimum, place an ice pack on the face over the operated area as recommended.  The ice should be used alternatively 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, for 4-6 hours following surgery.

5. For pain take Ibuprofen, Naproxen or Ketoprofen (Motrin, Advil, Tylenol) or other similar strength analgesics for the next two days unless it is contraindicated by any of your medical conditions.  Take it and/or additionally prescribed pain medication as directed.

6. Do not lift your lip to examine the surgical area; it is possible you can tear the stitches.

7. Maintain good oral hygiene.  Brush your teeth carefully after each meal, but avoid brushing the surgical area for two days.  At that time you may warm a toothbrush and gently clean the surgical area.

8. Starting tomorrow, use warm salt-water rinses (teaspoon of salt to a cup of water). Rinse 4-5 times a day for the next week. Avoid mouth rinses containing alcohol.