Apicoectomy in Garden City, NY
Our endodontists at Tangredi Endodontics specialize in apicoectomy procedures. If you live in Nassau County and need an apicoectomy, call 516-746-3636 to schedule an appointment or click here to request an appointment online.
Do You Require an Apicoectomy?
While root canal therapy is the most common endodontic procedure performed, sometimes a tooth has become so damaged that a root canal is not sufficient to save it. When an endodontist determines that a root canal won’t be effective, he or she will usually recommend endodontic surgery. Apical surgery, also known as an apicoectomy is the most common surgical procedure endodontists perform.
Since this delicate surgery may be a patient’s last option for saving a damaged tooth, it should be performed only by a highly skilled endodontist. Tangredi Endodontics sees many patients requiring apical surgery because we have one of the only board-certified endodontists in Garden City. Patients from throughout Nassau County are referred to our practice for this and our complete array of specialty endodontic services.
What is an Apicoectomy?
In this procedure, your endodontist will create a small incision in the gum to access the problem area, remove the infected root tips or apex of your tooth as well as the surrounding tissue, and clean the area around the infected apex. Then, your endodontist may apply a small filling in the root to seal the canal so debris cannot get in. Finally, he will apply a few stitches to your gum to encourage healing. An ice pack and medication are used to alleviate discomfort. After an apicoectomy, it’s best to plan to rest for the remainder of the day, but most patients can resume normal activity the next day. Most patients will have some minor swelling and occasional bruising with some numbness. Over the course of a few months, the bone surrounding the root will heal and strengthen.
Q: Does an apicoectomy hurt?
A: Like any complex endodontic procedure, such as root canal therapy, most patients feel slight discomfort during the procedure. A local anesthetic is used to prevent pain. After the procedure as the area heals, minor swelling and tenderness are common.
Q: Will dental insurance cover apical surgery?
A: Every insurance policy is different; consult your carrier to determine if the procedure is covered. If your policy does not cover this procedure, or you don’t have dental insurance, ask our Tangredi Endodontics office staff about our affordable payment plans.
Q: How can I be certain this procedure will save my natural tooth?
A: If your dentist or endodontist recommends an apicoectomy, it’s because he is confident this procedure is your best option for saving your tooth. However, as with any surgery, there are no guarantees. Drs. Tangredi and Salierno are happy to discuss the pros and cons of apex surgery versus other options, which include tooth removal and placement of a bridge or implant. Everyone is different, but most patients prefer to do whatever they can to save their natural teeth. Apicoectomy has a high success rate and often achieves that.
Contact Us Today
Call 516-746-3636 to schedule an appointment or click here to request an appointment online.