Please note we may not offer this treatment at our office. Call our Wilmington dental office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford dental office at (302) 536-7589 for more information.
Root End Surgery Near You
Are you looking for an experienced endodontist near you for root canal therapy or other specialized treatments? Our skilled dental team is dedicated to providing top-quality care to patients throughout Wilmington, Seaford, and surrounding Delaware communities.
Contact our Wilmington dental office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford dental office at (302) 536-7589 to schedule your consultation today.
What Is Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy, also known as root end surgery or root end resection, is a specialized endodontic surgery performed when traditional root canal treatment fails to heal properly. This minor surgical procedure removes the infected root tip and surrounding tissue, offering a last chance to save at-risk teeth before extraction becomes necessary.
When your dentist or endodontist recommends this procedure, it means conventional root canal therapy couldn’t fully eliminate the dental infection at the end of the root. Rather than losing your natural tooth, apicoectomy provides an effective solution to treat persistent infections and prevent serious complications that could affect your jawbone and overall oral health.
Why Choose Apicoectomy Over Tooth Extraction?
Preserving your natural teeth should always be the priority. Here’s why apicoectomy is often the superior choice for treating failed root canal cases:
High Success Rates That Deliver Results
Modern apicoectomy procedures boast impressive high success rates of over 90 percent, making them one of the most reliable treatments in endodontic surgery. With proper post-operative care and long-term follow-up, most patients experience complete healing and can return to normal activities within days.
Minimally Invasive Approach
Unlike traditional oral surgery, apicoectomy requires only a small incision in the gum tissue. This apical microsurgery technique minimizes trauma to surrounding bone and soft tissue, resulting in:
- Reduced post-operative discomfort
- Faster healing times
- Less swelling and minor bleeding
- Quicker return to daily routines
Cost-Effective Dental Solution
Saving your natural tooth through apicoectomy is typically more economical than tooth extraction followed by tooth replacement options like dental implants or dental bridges. Most dental insurance plans cover this necessary endodontic procedure.
Ideal Candidates Who Need Root End Surgery
Your endodontist will evaluate several factors to determine if apicoectomy is right for your specific dental needs:
Failed Root Canal Treatment
When previous root canal therapy hasn’t resolved the infection or abscess at the root tip, apicoectomy becomes the next logical step. This situation often occurs when:
- Narrow or curved root canals prevented complete cleaning
- Complex root anatomy limited access during initial treatment
- Post-treatment infection developed despite proper care
Persistent Symptoms and Complications
Patients experiencing ongoing tooth pain, jaw pain, or swelling after root canal treatment may benefit from root end surgery. These symptoms often indicate:
- Residual infected tissue at the root apex
- Incomplete healing of the surrounding bone
- Chronic inflammation affecting nearby structures
Anatomical Considerations
Certain teeth present unique challenges that make apicoectomy the preferred treatment:
- Teeth with proximity to sinuses or important nerves
- Roots with calcified canals that resist traditional cleaning
- Cases where retreatment risks damaging tooth structure
The Apicoectomy Procedure
Understanding the step-by-step process helps patients feel confident about their upcoming treatment. Before your appointment, your endodontist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and enhance healing. X-rays help plan the precise surgical approach, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Here’s what happens during your root end surgery:
- Anesthesia Administration: Local anesthetic ensures complete comfort throughout the 30-90 minute procedure
- Tissue Access: A small incision in the gum tissue provides access to the root tip
- Root Tip Removal: Specialized microsurgical instruments remove approximately 3mm of the infected root apex
- Thorough Cleaning: All infected tissue and debris are carefully eliminated from the surgical site
- Root End Filling: A biocompatible sealing material prevents future bacterial invasion
- Tissue Closure: Precise suturing promotes optimal healing and cosmetic results
After your apicoectomy, following post-operative instructions is crucial for successful healing. Most patients experience minimal discomfort that responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication when the anesthetic wears off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our experienced endodontic team serves patients throughout New Castle and Sussex counties. We’re conveniently located in Wilmington and Seaford, making quality root canal therapy accessible to communities including Newark, Dover, Middletown, and surrounding areas.
Delaware’s humid climate requires special attention to postoperative care. We provide detailed instructions for managing swelling and protecting the surgical site, especially during our warm summers. Most patients heal completely within seven to 10 days.
Most Delaware dental insurance plans recognize apicoectomy as a necessary treatment for failed root canal cases. Our office staff will verify your coverage and help maximize your benefits before treatment begins.
Take the Next Step And Schedule Your Consultation With Us!
Don’t let a failed root canal lead to tooth extraction. An apicoectomy effectively diagnoses issues, treats bone loss, and preserves your natural tooth. Ready to learn more? Contact our Delaware endodontic team today at our Wilmington office: (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office: (302) 536-7589.
We proudly serve patients in Wilmington, Seaford, Newark, Dover, Middletown, and surrounding Delaware areas with personalized care. Remember, early intervention leads to better outcomes. If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or need root end surgery, seek care without delay.
