Apicoectomy

Root canal therapy is performed to eliminate the infected portions of a tooth’s root in order to save the tooth. This is an effective procedure and helps many adults preserve their natural teeth. In some cases, root canal therapy does not fully resolve the infection and an apicoectomy is necessary to save the tooth.

Dr. Larson performs the apicoectomy procedure at our office in Norton Shores, MI. Using advanced 3D imaging technology, we perform surgery with great precision to achieve predictable outcomes. If you have undergone root canal therapy and an infection is still present, contact Breakwater Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants to schedule a consultation. Dr. Larson will evaluate your condition and create a custom treatment plan for your oral health needs.

Is an Apicoectomy Necessary?

An apicoectomy, also known as root end surgery, is a safe and effective procedure, but it is only recommended if further root canal treatment would be ineffective. If you undergo root canal therapy and inflammation or infection persists, your dentist may recommend you to an oral surgeon for an apicoectomy procedure.

An alternative to undergoing an apicoectomy would be to extract the tooth, which we try to avoid unless there are no other options available to save the tooth. Dental implants are a healthy way to replace teeth, but Dr. Larson will make every effort to save and protect your natural teeth before we explore restoration options.

The Apicoectomy Procedure

On the day of your apicoectomy procedure, we will administer the selected form of anesthesia to make sure you are comfortable. A local anesthetic is often used for an apicoectomy, but we offer many options to choose from. An apicoectomy procedure typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes to complete.

Once the area is numb, Dr. Larson will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the infected area. He will carefully remove the infected end of the root along with infected tissue, then place a filling inside of the tooth root. Sutures will be placed as necessary, and we will provide post-operative instructions for you to follow for a smooth recovery.

Apicoectomy in Norton Shores, MI

Dr. Larson is a dual-degree oral surgeon and physician who prioritizes his patients’ health, comfort, and satisfaction. By performing an apicoectomy procedure at our state-of-the-art office in Norton Shores, MI, we can give your natural teeth a second chance and prevent the need for extraction. Contact Breakwater Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants today if you have recently undergone root canal therapy and require further treatment to remove the infection.