How long an apicoectomy procedure can take is influenced by various factors, including the tooth’s location and the complexity of the procedure. This surgical intervention is typically recommended when a standard root canal treatment proves inadequate for resolving a persistent tooth infection or preventing potential complications.

During a root canal, the dentist typically cleans the canals and eliminates inflamed tissue, but sometimes residual infected debris can hinder healing or lead to re-infection.

To alleviate any discomfort, patients undergoing an apicoectomy receive local anesthesia. The surgical procedure itself generally takes between 30 and 90 minutes.

It begins with a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth, followed by the removal of the inflamed or infected tissue. Ultrasonic instruments are used to facilitate the cleaning and sealing of the root tip.

The healing process following an apicoectomy, which is generally a more invasive procedure compared to a standard root canal, typically involves some discomfort and may require a longer recovery period.

It’s common to experience swelling and discomfort after the apicoectomy, with the second day often being the peak of swelling. Additionally, temporary numbness in the gums and lips due to the local anesthesia is expected and typically resolves within a few hours.

Many individuals can resume their normal activities as early as the day after the procedure, but it’s advisable to plan for some rest on the same day as the surgery. You might encounter mild numbness, discomfort, or soreness during the initial 14 days, which typically diminishes over time. Complete healing of the gum tissue usually occurs within about 3 weeks.

Over several months, the jawbone tissue gradually regenerates to fill the void left by the removal of the root’s apex and any infected bone tissue, promoting overall recovery and restoration.

The expense associated with an apicoectomy can fluctuate based on several factors, including the specific tooth requiring treatment, the chosen endodontist, and the extent of dental insurance coverage.

In situations where you don’t have dental insurance, the typical cost for an apicoectomy can fall within the range of $1,000 to $2,000. Before performing the apicoectomy, a dentist may prescribe antibiotics and take x-rays of the affected area. These preliminary steps aid in procedure planning and follow-up X-rays may also be necessary to evaluate the success of the treatment, potentially influencing the overall cost.

For individuals with dental insurance coverage, the average price for an apicoectomy typically falls within the range of $100 to $500, depending on the specific terms and conditions outlined in their insurance policy.

Ideal Endodontics is committed to facilitating affordable dental care for patients and accepts most major insurance plans to help meet their dental care needs.

Neglecting to undergo an apicoectomy when it’s required can result in a wide range of negative consequences. Typically, pain and potential nerve damage represent the most common indicators of a tooth that requires either a root canal or an apicoectomy.

An apicoectomy procedure specifically involves the removal of the tip of the affected tooth’s root, helping alleviate discomfort and preventing the further spread of infection.

Should you postpone or avoid an apicoectomy, the infection is likely to extend deeper into the bone and may even affect adjacent teeth, which can lead to more costly treatment interventions in the long run.

In scenarios where the affected tooth has previously undergone a root canal, the only remaining option is complete tooth extraction. Opting for an apicoectomy not only preserves your natural tooth but also constitutes a less invasive procedure.

Tooth removal often necessitates subsequent dental implant surgery to replace the extracted tooth with an artificial one.

Apicoectomies are regarded as routine dental procedures. It’s commonly done to preserve a tooth. Apicoectomy procedures are available at Ideal Endodontics. We are conveniently located at 3102 Golansky Blvd, Suite 101 Woodbridge, VA 22192. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Woodbridge VA, Lorton VA, Dumfries VA, Springfield VA, Manassas VA, Stafford VA, and surrounding areas.