How can we help you?
We know that understanding what to expect can make a real difference in how you feel when you walk through our door. That's why we've put together answers to the questions we hear most often.
Don't see what you're looking for? Our team is always genuinely happy to answer our patients' questions.
Apicoectomy
An apicoectomy may be recommended when a tooth continues to show signs of infection or inflammation after root canal treatment, and retreatment is not the best option.
Reasons may include:
- Persistent infection near the root tip
- Complex root anatomy
- Previous restorations that make retreatment difficult
- Areas of infection that cannot be predictably reached from inside the tooth
Before recommending surgery, we carefully evaluate the tooth and discuss all available options.
An apicoectomy is performed using local anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. Many patients are surprised by how manageable the procedure is.
Some soreness, swelling, or tenderness after surgery is normal as the tissues heal. Most discomfort can typically be managed with recommended medications and following post-operative instructions.
For patients who feel anxious, we offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation options to help create a more comfortable experience.
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort and swelling for a few days after an apicoectomy. Swelling may be most noticeable during the first two to three days and gradually improves.
Many patients return to normal activities quickly, although the bone around the treated root continues healing over several months.
We provide detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care to monitor healing and ensure the tooth is progressing as expected.
Intentional replantation is a tooth-saving procedure where a tooth is carefully removed, treated outside the mouth, and then placed back into its original position.
This approach may be considered when other treatment options are limited, such as when the problem area cannot be predictably accessed through traditional retreatment or surgery.
The procedure requires careful planning and precise technique to protect the tooth and surrounding tissues. When successful, intentional replantation allows patients to keep their natural tooth rather than moving directly toward extraction.
Intentional replantation is generally considered only in carefully selected cases when other options are not predictable.
- Examples may include:
- Complex root anatomy
- Difficult-to-access areas of infection
- Situations where traditional retreatment or apicoectomy may not provide the best solution
Our doctors will carefully evaluate your tooth and discuss whether intentional replantation is appropriate based on your individual circumstances.