If a root canal procedure has been done in the past and it becomes infected again, it's often because of a problem near the apex of the root. In many cases, a second root canal treatment is considered before an apicoectomy. With advances in technology, dentists often can detect other canals that were not adequately treated. In this case, they may be able to clear up the infection by doing a second root canal procedure. This will avoid the need for an apicoectomy.
An apicoectomy is done only after a tooth has had at least one root canal procedure and retreatment has not been successful or is not possible. For example, retreatment is often not a good option when a tooth has a crown or is part of a bridge. Retreatment of the root canal would require cutting through the crown or bridge. That might destroy or weaken the crown or bridge. An apicoectomy is often considered in a situation like this.
An apicoectomy is not the same as a root resection. In a root resection, an entire root is removed, rather than just the tip
Preparation
Before the procedure, you will have a consultation with your dentist. A general dentist with advanced training may do an apicoectomy. However, with the advances in endodontic microsurgery most patients are referred to an endodontist or to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. An endodontist has at least two years of extra education in diagnosis and root canal treatment, including apicoectomies. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dentists who have an extra four to six years of training in surgery.
Answered2019-03-25 07:16:35
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