Apicoectomy & Root-End Surgery
in Hampton Roads
When infection or inflammation persists after a root canal, an apicoectomy can remove the affected root tip and help preserve your natural tooth. Eastern Virginia OMS provides specialized apicoectomy treatment in Hampton Roads using advanced imaging and precise surgical techniques.
What Is an Apicoectomy?
Teeth stay in place because strong roots extend into the jawbone. In most cases, molars and premolars have multiple roots. Meanwhile, front teeth (incisors) usually have a single root.
In addition, the tip of each root is called the apex. This area allows nerves and blood vessels to enter the tooth. As a result, it supplies blood to the crown, which is the visible part of the tooth.
A root canal treatment cleans the inside of the tooth. Specifically, it removes infected or inflamed tissue within the root canals. This treatment helps save the tooth and prevent infection from spreading.
However, in some cases, infection or inflammation continues after a root canal. When this occurs, an apicoectomy may be recommended.
An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure. It removes the root tip (apex) and seals the end of the root. Therefore, it helps prevent further infection and preserves the natural tooth. In many cases, this procedure helps patients avoid tooth extraction.
If left untreated, an infected root can:
- Damage surrounding teeth
- Spread infection
- Cause bone loss in the jaw
Visit our brand new, state-of-the-art offices for an apicoectomy. Enjoy an awesome staff and low wait times—we respect your time and treat you with a gentle touch.
Our Procedures
- Dental Emergencies
- Apicoectomy
- Bone Grafting
- Corrective Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
- Dental Extractions
- Dental Implants
- Facial Trauma Reconstruction
- Impacted Canines
- Oral Cancer Exam
- Oral Pathology
- Panoramic X-Rays
- Ridge Modification
- Sedation Dentistry
- Sinus Augmentation
- Sleep Apnea
- Sleep Apnea Appliances
- Soft Tissue Grafting
- TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorders)
- Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Why Is An Apicoectomy Needed?
An apicoectomy is typically recommended when infection remains after a root canal. In these cases, the goal is to remove infection and save the tooth. Usually, this procedure is only considered after a root canal treatment has not worked.
There are several reasons why an apicoectomy may be needed:
- Small adjoining root branches: Root systems are complex. Because of this, tiny branches may be difficult to clean during a root canal. As a result, infection can remain.
- Blocked root canal: Sometimes, a root canal becomes blocked by debris or a broken file. When this happens, the canal cannot be fully cleaned. Therefore, infection may persist.
- Narrow or curved root canals: If the canal is too narrow or curved, instruments may not reach the root tip. Consequently, infection can continue.
At Eastern Virginia OMS, our experienced oral surgeons use advanced imaging and precise surgical techniques to provide specialized care when additional treatment is needed.
Apicoectomy vs. Tooth Extraction
When a previously treated tooth develops persistent infection, treatment options may include additional endodontic treatment, apicoectomy, or extraction depending on the condition of the tooth.
When the tooth can be predictably preserved, an apicoectomy may provide an opportunity to maintain your natural tooth rather than removing it.
If extraction is ultimately necessary, your oral surgeon can also discuss tooth replacement options and whether bone grafting or dental implants may be appropriate.
Can an Apicoectomy Save My Tooth?
One of the primary goals of an apicoectomy is to preserve the natural tooth when possible.
If infection remains after a root canal, an apicoectomy may allow the surgeon to remove the source of infection without extracting the entire tooth. However, not every tooth is a candidate for root-end surgery.
Your oral surgeon will evaluate the condition of the tooth, root, surrounding bone, and previous root canal treatment before recommending the most appropriate option.
Why Choose Eastern Virginia OMS for Apicoectomy?
Eastern Virginia OMS provides specialized oral and maxillofacial surgery throughout Hampton Roads. Our surgeons use advanced diagnostic imaging and surgical techniques to evaluate complex dental conditions and provide personalized treatment.
Our goal is to make your experience as comfortable as possible while providing precise surgical care focused on your long-term oral health.
Whether you have been referred for an apicoectomy after a root canal or are experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or infection around a previously treated tooth, our team can evaluate your condition and explain your treatment options.
Our team serves patients from Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and communities throughout Hampton Roads.
Schedule an Apicoectomy
Consultation
If you have persistent pain, swelling, or infection involving a tooth that has previously had a root canal, contact Eastern Virginia OMS to schedule an evaluation.
Have your referral available when you call. Our team can answer your questions, explain the next steps, and help you schedule an appointment.
Is an apicoectomy painful?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia during surgery. Some soreness or swelling afterward is normal, and your surgeon will provide instructions for managing discomfort during recovery.
How long does an apicoectomy take?
The length of an apicoectomy varies depending on the tooth and complexity of the procedure. Your surgeon can provide a more specific estimate after evaluating your tooth.
Can an apicoectomy be done after a root canal?
Yes. An apicoectomy is often considered when infection or inflammation persists around the root tip after a root canal and additional surgical treatment may help preserve the tooth.
What happens if an apicoectomy is not performed?
Persistent infection around a tooth can continue to affect the surrounding bone and tissues. Your oral surgeon will evaluate the condition and explain whether an apicoectomy, additional treatment, or extraction is the best option.
Schedule an Apicoectomy Consultation
If you have persistent pain, swelling, or infection involving a tooth that has previously had a root canal, contact Eastern Virginia OMS to schedule an evaluation.
Have your referral available when you call. Our team can answer your questions, explain the next steps, and help you schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an apicoectomy painful?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia during surgery. Some soreness or swelling afterward is normal, and your surgeon will provide instructions for managing discomfort during recovery.
How long does an apicoectomy take?
The length of an apicoectomy varies depending on the tooth and complexity of the procedure. Your surgeon can provide a more specific estimate after evaluating your tooth.
Can an apicoectomy be done after a root canal?
Yes. An apicoectomy is often considered when infection or inflammation persists around the root tip after a root canal and additional surgical treatment may help preserve the tooth.
What happens if an apicoectomy is not performed?
Persistent infection around a tooth can continue to affect the surrounding bone and tissues. Your oral surgeon will evaluate the condition and explain whether an apicoectomy, additional treatment, or extraction is the best option.