Apicoectomy Treatment in Los Angeles & Studio City, CA

Please note we may not offer this service at our offices. Call offices in Los Angeles at (213) 623-2212 and Studio City at (818) 980-8472 to learn more. 

Saving Smiles with Apicoectomy: Root-End Surgery Explained

A persistent toothache can be debilitating, especially when it stems from a problem deep within the tooth root. When root canal therapy isn’t enough, apicoectomy, a specialized surgical procedure, offers a chance to save your natural tooth and eliminate that nagging pain. 

Dr. Lavi, a skilled dentist in Southern California, with offices in Los Angeles at (213) 623-2212 and Studio City at (818) 980-8472, emphasizes the importance of understanding all your treatment options. He believes informed patients make the best decisions about their care. We also welcome patients from Burbank, Sherman Oaks, and Toluca Lake, CA.

What is Apicoectomy?

Apicoectomy can treat infections or other problems at the tip (apex) of a tooth’s root. It’s often recommended when a root canal has failed or when traditional root canal treatment isn’t right for your case. During an apicoectomy, Dr. Lavi removes the infected or damaged portion of the root tip and seals the end of the root to prevent further infection.

Signs You May Need an Apicoectomy

Several reasons may necessitate an apicoectomy:

• Persistent Infection: Even after a root canal, bacteria can sometimes remain in the tiny canals at the root tip, leading to a recurring infection.
• Complex Root Anatomy: Some teeth have complex or curved root systems that make it difficult for root canal instruments to reach the very end of the root.
• Previous Root Canal Failure: If a previous root canal has failed, an apicoectomy can be a second chance to save the tooth.
• Fractured Root: In some cases, a tooth root may be fractured, requiring an apicoectomy to remove the damaged portion.
• Diagnostic Purposes: Sometimes, an apicoectomy is performed to obtain a tissue sample for diagnostic purposes.

Why Choose Dr. Lavi for Endodontic Treatment in Southern California?

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need a root canal or apicoectomy, it’s essential to seek the advice of a qualified dentist.  Dr. Lavi, serving the Southern California area, with dental offices in Los Angeles and Studio City, CA, can evaluate your situation and determine if an apicoectomy is the right course of action.

Contact our Los Angeles office at (213) 623-2212 or his Studio City office at (818) 980-8472 to schedule a consultation.

Benefits of Apicoectomy

Apicoectomy offers several benefits:

• Tooth Preservation: It can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.  
• Pain Relief: Root-end surgery can eliminate the pain and discomfort associated with a root infection.  
• Improved Oral Health: By removing the infection, it improves the overall health of your mouth.
• Long-Term Solution: When performed successfully, an apicoectomy can provide a long-term solution to root problems.  

Apicoectomy Treatment Process

Preparation

Once you and Dr. Lavi decide that an apicoectomy is the best course of action, the preparation phase begins:

• Local Anesthesia: The area around the affected tooth is numbed using local anesthesia. This ensures you’ll experience minimal discomfort during the surgery.  
• Sterile Environment: Maintaining a sterile environment is paramount to prevent infection. The surgical area is thoroughly cleaned and prepped.

The Apicoectomy Procedure

The surgical procedure typically takes between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on the complexity of the case. Here’s what happens:  

• Gum Flap: Dr. Lavi makes a small incision in the gum tissue to create a flap. This gently lifts the gum tissue away from the tooth, providing access to the root.  
• Removal of Damaged Root Tip and Tissue: The infected or damaged portion of the tooth root tip (apex) is carefully removed. Any surrounding infected tissue or bone is also removed.  
• Root-End Filling: A biocompatible filling material is placed to seal the end of the root. This prevents bacteria from re-entering and causing further infection.  
• Bone Grafting (if necessary): If there has been significant bone loss around the root tip, Dr. Lavi may place a bone graft to stimulate bone regeneration.
• Suturing: The gum flap is carefully repositioned back into its original place and stitched closed. The sutures are usually dissolvable and will disappear on their own within a week or two. 

Aftercare for Apicoectomy Procedure

After an apicoectomy, some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal. Dr. Lavi will provide you with post-operative instructions, which may include:

• Pain medication: To manage any discomfort.
• Cold compresses: To reduce swelling.
• Oral hygiene instructions: To keep the area clean.
• Dietary recommendations: To avoid hard or chewy foods.

Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days. It’s crucial to follow Dr. Lavi’s instructions carefully to promote healing and prevent complications.

Frequently Asked Questions 

The Path to a Pain-Free Smile Starts with Dr. Lavi

Don’t let tooth pain control your life. A healthy, comfortable smile is within reach. If you live in or around Studio City, Los Angeles, CA, including Burbank, Sherman Oaks, and Toluca Lake, and are exploring options like apicoectomy, Dr. Lavi can provide the compassionate and skilled care you deserve. 

Contact Dr. Lavi’s Los Angeles office at (213) 623-2212 or his Studio City office at (818) 980-8472 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free, confident smile.