Apicoectomy Treatment in Los Angeles & Studio City, CA

Please note we may not offer this service.

Apicoectomies: A Root Canal Treatment Alternative

An apicoectomy is a minimally invasive dental surgery that removes the tip of a tooth’s root, allowing your endodontist to clean and seal the root canal. This procedure is recommended when a traditional root canal treatment has failed to heal the tooth or abscess at the tip of the tooth’s root.

If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, please contact our Los Angeles & Studio City dentist by calling our office at (213) 623-2212.

What is an Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure performed by an endodontist to address persistent tooth infections. Unlike a root canal, which focuses on the inside of the tooth, an apicoectomy targets the root tip. We remove infected tissue and seal the root to prevent further complications.

Benefits of an Apicoectomy

An apicoectomy offers numerous advantages for patients in Los Angeles and Studio City suffering from persistent tooth pain or infection. Our experienced endodontists specialize in this procedure and provide exceptional care.

• Save Your Natural Tooth: Preserve your smile and maintain proper bite function with a successful apicoectomy. Avoid the need for costly and invasive tooth extraction.
• Relieve Persistent Pain: Eliminate chronic toothaches caused by infection at the root tip. Enjoy a higher quality of life free from dental discomfort.
• Prevent Further Infection: By removing the infected tissue and sealing the root, we can stop the spread of infection and protect your oral health.
• Maintain Oral Function: Preserve your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently. A healthy tooth is essential for overall well-being.
• Faster Recovery: Compared to traditional oral surgery, apicoectomy typically involves a shorter recovery time, allowing you to return to your daily activities sooner.

Candidacy for Apicoectomies

Determining if you’re a suitable candidate for an apicoectomy requires a thorough evaluation by our skilled endodontists. Several factors indicate that you may benefit from this procedure:

• Failed Root Canal Treatment: If a previous root canal treatment has been unsuccessful in resolving tooth pain or infection, an apicoectomy may be necessary.
• Persistent Toothache: Chronic or severe tooth pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments can indicate an underlying infection requiring apicoectomy.
• Abscess at Root Tip: A visible or palpable abscess at the end of the tooth’s root often necessitates an apicoectomy to eliminate the infection.
• Bone Loss: Evidence of bone loss around the tooth’s root can indicate a chronic infection that may require surgical intervention.
• Difficulty with Traditional Root Canal Treatment: Teeth with complex root canal anatomy or curved roots can be challenging to treat with conventional methods, making apicoectomy a viable option.

The Apicoectomy Process

Our team is committed to providing a comfortable and efficient apicoectomy experience for our Studio City patients. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

• Consultation and Examination: Your endodontist will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if an apicoectomy is the appropriate treatment.
• Local Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area.
• Small Incision: A small incision is made in the gum tissue to access the root tip.
• Removal of Infected Tissue: The infected or damaged tissue at the root end is carefully removed.
• Root End Filling: The cleaned root tip is filled with a biocompatible material to prevent future infection.
• Closure: The gum tissue is sutured closed, and you will be given post-operative care instructions.

Aftercare for an Apicoectomy Procedure

Proper aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery following an apicoectomy. Our Los Angeles and Studio City dental practice provides detailed post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing.

• Pain Management: Mild discomfort is normal in the days following the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain.
• Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to the affected area can reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Oral Hygiene: Gentle brushing and flossing are essential, avoiding the surgical site. Saltwater rinses can help keep the area clean.
• Diet: Soft foods are recommended for the first few days to avoid irritation. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as your mouth heals.
• Avoid Strenuous Activity: Rest is important for healing. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that increase heart rate.
• Medication: Follow your dentist’s instructions for any prescribed medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule Your Apicoectomy Consultation with Dr. Lavi Today

An apicoectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that can treat a tooth that has previously undergone a root canal treatment but has failed to heal properly. It’s usually recommended as a last resort when other treatment options have failed.

If you’re experiencing dental pain or have been told you need an apicoectomy, don’t hesitate to speak to your endodontist to learn more about the procedure and how it can help you regain your oral health. To schedule a consultation, contact our Los Angeles & Studio City dentist today by calling (213) 623-2212.