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What is apicoectomy?

Milan Babić

Dentist

What is apicoectomy?

Apicoectomy is a simple surgical intervention by which the top of the root affected by infection is “cut off”.

Why is apicoectomy necessary?

If the tooth is affected by caries, bacteria can endanger dental pulp (nerve), which leads to pulp inflammation. Next, the infection is spread to the top of the root. If the infection is persistent and cannot be treated with endodontic treatment, the apicoectomy of the root is necessary.

What does this procedure look like?

The whole procedure is painless because it is performed with local anesthesia (similar to teeth reparation). The part of gum around the tooth is lifted in order to have access to the top of the root. The following step is simple cutting off the top of the root and elimination of infection, as well as filling the root canal, if it has not been done before the intervention.

Gum is returned to its position and sewed with several stitches. The intervention lasts for 15 to 20 minutes.

Is preparation before apicoectomy important?

The preparation is usually referred to endodontic treatment i.e. cleaning and filling the root canal. Sometimes, this step must be done during surgical intervention.

Are there contraindications for apicoectomy?

Yes. If we exclude patient’s general bad condition, the most common contraindication for this procedure is the tooth with very short root, as well as the presence of prominent periodontitis. The root of such a tooth would be too short after the intervention, which would cause a loose tooth and inability to suppress forces during chewing.

Can crown be put on the apicoectomied tooth?

Of course. If all surgical procedure principles are followed and if the root in the bone is long enough, the tooth can be prepared for fixed prosthetic work after the recovery period.

What can you expect after apicoectomy?

As well as after any surgical intervention, slight swelling and pain in the area of operated region can be expected. It is necessary to follow the instructions given by the oral surgeon.

Author: Dr. Milan Babić

 

The information published on our website is of merely informative nature. You do not build the patient – physician relationship simply by reading the content. No diagnosis or treatment can be provided without prior clinical examination, which is the basic and most important diagnostic tool. The information you read should only be used in consultation with a dentist. The dental centre does not provide any warranty regarding the information on this site. Specific medical, dental or surgical advice for your particular case can be obtained exclusively at a clinical examination. The Dental Center Bobic does not assume responsibility for other websites that are linked to this site and such links do not imply any link or support to these sites.

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2019-04-18T15:24:49+02:00
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