Apicoectomy

So, you had nonsurgical root canal therapy for an infected tooth. Now you are experiencing additional problems with the same tooth. Does that mean it has to come out? Not necessarily. It could be saved with an endodontic surgery called an apicoectomy. Drs. Ryan Lepore and Erin Dougherty at Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry guide patients from Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, Largo, Clearwater Beach, and Dunedin, Florida, to the specialized care they need to avoid the necessity of dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures.

Why apico dental surgery could be needed

The apex is the furthest tip of a tooth root. Apicoectomy or root end surgery involves the removal of diseased tissue in this area. The apex of the root is also removed so that the end of the canal can be filled. The procedure eliminates infection, preventing its spread to surrounding bone or other tissues. It also calms discomfort from infection-related inflammation.

In experienced hands, the success rate for nonsurgical root canal therapy is outstanding. However, tooth anatomy can be complex. Healing of the initial procedure or fresh problems with the tooth can be triggered by:

  • A narrow or overlooked canal
  • Delay in placing a crown on the root canaled tooth
  • A crown that becomes loose or damaged
  • A new area of decay or trauma

PATIENTS HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR FROM APICOECTOMY

Apicoectomy is a precise procedure carefully planned with advanced diagnostic technologies. From the patient’s perspective, it is brief and minimally traumatic. You are settled comfortably into the treatment chair, and your mouth is numbed with a local anesthetic. The endodontist creates a small incision in the gum to access the tooth root and perform necessary work, including cleaning and disinfection of the abscessed root(s). The incision is closed with a few sutures to speed healing. Then, over time, the bone fuses around the root tip.

You receive post-procedure care instructions, and most people return to normal activities the next day. Any residual swelling or discomfort can be easily managed with over-the-counter or prescription analgesics. With good oral hygiene and regular professional dental attention, the treated tooth can remain part of your smile for many years.

Call Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry at (727) 608-4690 for a higher level of dental care integrated with your overall healthcare philosophy.

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New Patients: (727) 608-4690 | Existing Patients: (727) 733-4113
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Our Dental Savings Plans

Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry believes that everyone should have access to high-quality dental care and that financial constraints or insurance status shouldn’t stand in the way for anyone to receive such care. That’s why we have introduced Dental Savings Plans as we don’t want you to compromise on your dental health. We have two plans – Standard and Wellness - offered at an annual membership fee of $429 and $729 respectively.

Membership will entitle you to a host of benefits including free and discounted treatments with a focus on your overall health.

S

Dental work is surely not my favorite and has been very hard for me in the past, but Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry staff has gone above and beyond to ensure that I am comfortable and confident in all the work being done. This is truly somewhere I would recommend to absolutely any family member or friend. They have your best interest in mind!

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We are your "home" in Dunedin for advanced dentistry and functional dental medicine. Within our inviting, highly personalized concierge environment, our team supports your whole "wellness" - not just the beauty and health of your smile!