Persistent infection near the tip of a tooth’s root can cause pain, swelling, and complications even after root canal treatment. An apicoectomy is a specialized procedure designed to remove infected tissue and preserve a natural tooth when conventional treatment has not fully resolved the problem. At Foundation Dental Specialists, our experienced team provides personalized dental apicoectomy care using evidence-based techniques and advanced diagnostic technology. Patients seeking an apicoectomy in Pasadena can expect attentive care, clear communication, and a customized treatment plan focused on restoring long-term oral health.
At Foundation Dental Specialists, we understand that losing a tooth can have significant consequences for your oral health.
A dental apicoectomy, sometimes referred to as root-end surgery, is an endodontic procedure that treats infection or inflammation around the tip of a tooth’s root. During the procedure, an endodontist accesses the affected area through the gum tissue, removes the infected tissue and a small portion of the root tip, and seals the end of the root to help prevent bacteria from re-entering the tooth.
This treatment is generally considered when a previous root canal has not completely eliminated an infection or when retreating the entire root canal system may not be the most appropriate option. By addressing the problem directly at the root tip, an apicoectomy may help preserve the natural tooth and reduce the need for extraction.
An apicoectomy may be recommended when infection, inflammation, or structural complications remain near the root of a previously treated tooth. Before recommending treatment, our specialists carefully evaluate your symptoms, dental history, existing restorations, root anatomy, and diagnostic images.
Dental problems that may lead to a recommendation for an apicoectomy include:
Not every tooth with lingering symptoms requires surgery. Our team will determine whether a dental apicoectomy, nonsurgical root canal retreatment, extraction, or another treatment approach is best suited to your needs.
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The apicoectomy process is carefully planned to target the source of infection while protecting the surrounding tooth, bone, and gum tissue. Although each treatment plan is personalized, the procedure generally includes the following steps.
When appropriately recommended, an apicoectomy can address the source of a persistent problem without removing the entire tooth. The procedure may provide several important benefits for your comfort, function, and long-term oral health.
At Foundation Dental Specialists, we use advanced technology to support accurate diagnoses and carefully planned treatment. Cone beam computed tomography, commonly called CBCT, produces detailed three-dimensional images of the teeth, roots, jawbone, and surrounding structures.
Unlike a traditional two-dimensional dental X-ray, CBCT imaging allows our specialists to examine the treatment area from multiple angles. This additional detail can help us identify complex root anatomy, evaluate the size and location of an infection, assess nearby bone, and plan the safest and most precise approach to treatment. CBCT scans are recommended when the diagnostic benefits are appropriate for the patient’s individual condition.
Our use of advanced imaging is part of a broader commitment to creating healthier smiles through customized care. By combining modern technology with scientific evidence, clinical experience, and patient preferences, our periodontists and endodontists can develop oral health solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Foundation Dental Specialists proudly provides advanced periodontal and endodontic care for patients throughout Pasadena, Altadena, Eagle Rock, Glendale, and the greater San Gabriel Valley. Whether you have been referred by your general dentist or are seeking an evaluation for persistent tooth pain or infection, our team is available to help you understand your condition and treatment options.
Ongoing pain or infection after a root canal should not be ignored. An apicoectomy may provide an effective way to treat the source of the problem, protect the surrounding tissues, and preserve your natural tooth. At Foundation Dental Specialists, our mission is to provide the highest caliber of periodontal and endodontic care while delivering an exceptional patient experience.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment, request an evaluation, or learn more about our dental services and personalized treatment options.
A dental apicoectomy may be recommended when infection or inflammation remains near the root tip after root canal treatment. It can also be used when complex root anatomy, calcification, a dental post, or another obstruction makes conventional retreatment difficult.
Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area, so patients should not feel pain during the procedure. Mild soreness, swelling, or tenderness may occur afterward and can often be managed with medication and post-treatment care.
The length of the procedure depends on the tooth’s location, root anatomy, and extent of infection. Many apicoectomy procedures can be completed in approximately 30 to 90 minutes.
Foundation Dental Specialists provides specialized evaluations and apicoectomy treatment for patients in Pasadena, Altadena, Eagle Rock, Glendale, and the greater San Gabriel Valley. Contact the office to schedule an appointment and learn whether a dental apicoectomy may be appropriate for your tooth.
