Apicoectomies in Bellevue, WA

An apicoectomy is a dental procedure performed to remove the tip of a tooth's root (the apex) and the surrounding infected tissue. This treatment is typically considered when standard root canal therapy has failed to eliminate an infection or when an infection recurs.

During the procedure, our dentist in Bellevue, WA, makes a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth to access the underlying bone and root. The infected tissue and the root tip are removed, and the root canal is filled to prevent further infection. The gum is sutured back into place, and the bone heals around the root over time. Apicoectomies are usually recommended when other methods to save the tooth have been exhausted and their goal is to preserve the natural tooth, eliminate infection, and relieve pain.

When Are Apicoectomies Necessary?

Persistent Infections

One of the primary reasons for performing an apicoectomy is the persistence of infection despite previous attempts at root canal treatment. Standard root canal therapy aims to clean out infected pulp tissue from within the tooth and seal the root canals to prevent reinfection.

However, in some cases, bacteria may persist in the small branches of the tooth's root system or in areas that are challenging to access during standard treatment. This persistence can lead to chronic inflammation, discomfort, and even the spread of infection to surrounding tissues.

Complex Root Anatomy

Teeth vary significantly in their root structures, with some exhibiting intricate curves, accessory canals, or unusually shaped roots. These complexities can create challenges during root canal treatment. Instruments used in standard procedures may not effectively clean and seal all parts of the root system, leaving behind areas where bacteria can remain active.

An apicoectomy allows our dentist to access and treat these areas directly, reducing the risk of ongoing infection and promoting thorough healing. Contact us today to learn more.

Fractured Roots

Another situation where an apicoectomy may be necessary is when a tooth's root is fractured. Root fractures can compromise the tooth's integrity and provide pathways for bacteria to enter and cause infection.

Depending on the location and extent of the fracture, traditional root canal treatment alone may not be sufficient to address the infection or entirely prevent its recurrence. By surgically accessing the root tip and removing the affected tissue, an apicoectomy in Bellevue, WA, can effectively treat the infection and potentially save the tooth from extraction.

Recurrent Infections

In some cases, a previously treated tooth may experience a recurrence of infection after a root canal procedure. This can happen due to incomplete removal of infected tissue, inadequate sealing of the root canals, or recontamination of the tooth's interior over time.

An apicoectomy provides a targeted approach to eliminating persistent infection, cleaning the affected area thoroughly, and sealing the root tip to prevent further issues. This comprehensive treatment approach improves the chances of long-term success in managing this dental problem without resorting to tooth extraction.

The Apicoectomy Procedure

Thorough preparation and planning are essential before an apicoectomy. The procedure begins with a comprehensive examination, including X-rays and other imaging techniques. These diagnostic tools help the dentist identify the exact location and extent of the problem, such as an infection or a fractured root.

On the day of the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the surgery. This numbing agent is injected near the affected tooth, effectively blocking pain sensations from the surgical site. Patients may also receive sedation if they experience anxiety or if the procedure is expected to be lengthy or complex.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, our dentist makes a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth. This incision exposes the underlying bone and provides access to the tooth's root tip (apex). The precise location of the incision depends on the tooth's position and the extent of the infection or damage.

With access to the root tip, the dentist carefully removes the infected or damaged tissue, including the apex of the tooth's root and any surrounding inflamed or necrotic tissue. Specialized instruments are used to clean and shape the root canal space, ensuring that all affected areas are thoroughly addressed to prevent future infection.

After the infected tissue is removed, the end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible material. This sealing prevents bacteria from re-entering the root canal and causing further infection. The choice of sealing material may vary depending on the case's specific circumstances and the dental professional's preference.

Once the root-end sealing is completed, the gum tissue is sutured back into place with stitches. These sutures hold the tissue in position to promote proper healing. The patient is provided with post-operative care instructions, including guidelines for managing discomfort, swelling, and oral hygiene in the days following the procedure.

Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the infection is effectively eliminated. During these visits, the dentist may take X-rays to assess bone and root structure healing. This ongoing monitoring helps confirm the success of the apicoectomy in resolving the dental issue and preserving the natural tooth.

The Benefits of Apicoectomies

• Apicoectomies aim to save the natural tooth, preventing the need for extraction and potential complications associated with tooth loss.
• Apicoectomies address infections at the root tip, providing a higher chance of successful treatment than repeated root canal procedures alone.
• Removing the source of infection often results in immediate relief from pain and discomfort associated with dental infections.

An apicoectomy is a precise and effective procedure performed to save a tooth that might otherwise require extraction due to persistent infection or other complications. Visit Bellevue Impressions Dentistry at 1811 156th Ave NE, Suite #1, Bellevue, WA 98007, or call (425) 746-8676 to schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team and discover how an apicoectomy can benefit your dental health.