Most of us think of our teeth in terms of the crown — the part of the tooth we can see. But teeth are far more complex — and far more extensive, reaching deep into your jaw bone.
And, while the outside of the tooth is solid and durable, the inside contains a pulp-filled canal that supports blood vessels and nerves. These nerves and vessels also extend well into your jaw bone, exiting the tooth at its very tip — a part called the apex.
While some deep infections involve the pulp located in the center of your tooth, others involve the tip portion. To treat infections in this area, you need a procedure called an apicoectomy.
At Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC, our team uses the most advanced techniques for apicoectomy treatment, battling deep infections and preventing them from spreading. Here, learn why apicoectomy is performed and how it benefits your oral health now and in the future.
Focused on the tip of your tooth root, apicoectomy is often used to treat new infections and infections that sometimes occur following a “failed” root canal. In these instances, hidden canals or unusual tooth anatomy can interfere with the original root canal procedure, leaving behind “hidden” bacteria that can cause future infection.
Sometimes, these teeth can be treated with another root canal; other times, an apicoectomy is a better option. Apicoectomy is also used for other problems affecting the lower part of the tooth, including:
Like “regular” root canal treatment, an apicoectomy preserves the tooth, helping you avoid tooth loss and the problems it can cause.
During an apicoectomy, your provider thoroughly numbs your tooth and gum, then makes a tiny incision over the root area so it can be examined. Diseased or dead tissue is removed, as well as the tooth’s apex. Next, we treat, seal, and fill the canal end and close the incision with a few sutures.
Obviously, getting rid of infected tissue is important for the health of your tooth. If the root portion of the tooth is infected, it can quickly lead to tooth weakening, fractures, or tooth loss. Removing the infected or dead gum tissue is also important for your oral health and, of course, to relieve pain.
But an apicoectomy is important for your overall health, too. That’s because when an infection travels from your tooth into the jaw bone, it can quickly spread to other parts of your face. If the germs enter your bloodstream, you can wind up with widespread infection or infections focusing on specific organs, like your heart.
Having an apicoectomy stops pain and tooth destruction, and it also prevents the infection from spreading. That’s why if you have any type of tooth pain or swelling, it’s very important to schedule an exam right away, before the infection has a chance to spread.
Helping our patients maintain their oral health is our number one priority, and that means tailoring every treatment plan to each patient’s unique needs. If you have tooth pain or swelling or if you’d like to learn more about apicoectomy and the other state-of-the-art treatments we offer, call 929-344-0932 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC today.
