How to Prepare for Your Apicoectomy

Root canal therapy is a safe, effective, time-proven method for removing deep decay and damage in the central part of the tooth — specifically, the tunnels or canals that extend from the center of the tooth all the way down to the end of the tooth root.

Sometimes, though, infection persists at the root end despite root canal therapy. In these instances, or if the tip is where the original infection is located, an apicoectomy is usually the treatment of choice. 

At Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC, our team is experienced in advanced apicoectomy techniques to help every patient achieve the best outcome. If an apicoectomy is in your future, here’s what you can do to prepare.

Understanding the basics

An apicoectomy derives its name from the part of the tooth it treats: the apex or bottom end of the tooth root. The purpose of the procedure is to treat decay and infection in the bottom part of the root, and to treat inflammation and damage in the tissue surrounding the root end.

An apicoectomy is often performed when a root canal treatment fails — that is, when you continue to have pain or other symptoms following root canal therapy. Failed root canal treatments usually happen when the original treatment “misses” some of the germs inside the tooth’s canals, or when a tooth has complex anatomy, like very narrow, hard-to-reach, or “hidden” canals.

While some failed treatments can be corrected with retreatment, when damage is farther down near the tip, an apicoectomy can be a better choice. This treatment uses a small incision in your gum to access and remove the root tip, as well as any damaged tissue surrounding it. Once the area is treated, it’s sealed to prevent further problems.

Preparing for your apicoectomy

Like root canal therapy, an apicoectomy is a straightforward procedure, and getting ready for your visit is simple. 

During your initial consultation and examination, we perform diagnostic imaging to evaluate the area and map out your treatment. If you have a significant infection, we may prescribe antibiotics before your treatment to “jumpstart” healing. 

At this visit, it’s also very important to let us know about any medications or supplements you’re taking and any chronic medical conditions you have, like a heart condition or high blood pressure. Typically, an apicoectomy is performed using a local anesthetic, but if you feel like you could benefit from sedation, we’ll need to be sure the sedative is safe for you to use based on your medical history.

Treatment day

Most treatments take no more than an hour, but it’s still a good idea to wear comfy clothing to help you feel more relaxed. Eat a light meal and take any prescribed medication unless we tell you otherwise. 

After an apicoectomy, it’s normal to have some mild swelling and discomfort. Plan to have some soft foods on hand, along with an icepack and some over-the-counter pain medicine. 

Finally, it’s a good idea to plan to take the rest of the day off to relax, especially if you’re having a sedative, in which case you’ll also need to arrange to have someone drive you home. 

Advanced therapy to protect your oral health

An apicoectomy is one more way our team can help you preserve your natural teeth and maintain your beautiful smile without worrying about extraction and permanent tooth loss. 

If you’re having tooth pain, gum swelling, or any other unusual symptom, don’t delay treatment. To learn how we can help, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC in New York City today.