Surgical Root Canal Therapy (Apicoectomy) in Gaithersburg, Silver Spring and Frederick, MD

At Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we are dedicated to providing advanced dental care to help you preserve your natural teeth and maintain optimal oral health. One of the specialized procedures we offer is Apicoectomy, a form of surgical root canal therapy designed to treat persistent infections or complications that traditional root canal treatments cannot resolve. If you are facing issues with a previous root canal or unresolved infection, our skilled team of oral surgeons and specialists is here to provide expert care and guide you through every step of the process.

Dr. Romanow or Dr. Wentworth will make every effort to explain if this procedure is appropriate for you and also to describe what you can expect during and after the procedure.

As always, we offer a variety of anesthesia options to you during this procedure.

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Gaithersburg: Gaithersburg Office Phone Number 301-238-7026 Silver Spring: Silver Spring Office Phone Number 301-636-7976 Frederick: Frederick Office Phone Number 240-455-3293 Request An Appointment

What is Apicoectomy (Surgical Root Canal Therapy)?

An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the tip (apex) of the tooth’s root and any infected tissue surrounding it. This treatment is typically performed when a conventional root canal fails to fully resolve an infection or when additional anatomical challenges prevent a non-surgical approach from being successful. The goal of an apicoectomy is to save your natural tooth by eliminating infection and sealing the root tip to prevent future issues.

At Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, our experienced team uses advanced technology and surgical techniques to ensure your procedure is as effective and comfortable as possible.

How Does an Apicoectomy Work?

  1. Pre-Surgery Consultation: During your consultation at Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we will conduct a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic X-rays, to evaluate the extent of the infection and determine if an apicoectomy is the best option for you.
  2. Anesthesia and Comfort: Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring that you are completely comfortable throughout the procedure. If needed, we also offer sedation options for added relaxation.
  3. Surgical Access: A small incision is made in the gum tissue near the affected tooth, allowing our oral surgeons to access the tip of the root and any surrounding infected tissue.
  4. Removing Infection: The infected tissue at the root tip is carefully removed, and the root end is cleaned. Any remaining infection is thoroughly treated to eliminate bacteria and prevent further complications.
  5. Sealing the Root: After the infection is removed, the root is sealed with a biocompatible material, preventing bacteria from re-entering. The gum tissue is then sutured back into place.
  6. Recovery: After your procedure, we provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly and comfortably. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
  7. Follow-Up Care: We schedule a follow-up appointment to check on the healing process, ensuring that everything is healing properly and that the infection has been fully addressed.

Why Choose Apicoectomy at Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants?

  • Expert Care and Experience: Our team of highly skilled oral surgeons and specialists are trained in advanced techniques to perform apicoectomies with precision and care. We are committed to providing the highest quality care to help you save your natural tooth.
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: At Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we use cutting-edge technology, including digital X-rays and 3D imaging, to plan and perform your apicoectomy with the utmost accuracy.
  • Personalized Treatment: We tailor each treatment plan to your unique needs, ensuring the most effective solution for your specific case. Your comfort and long-term oral health are our top priorities.
  • Comfortable and Compassionate Care: Our team is here to ensure that you feel at ease during every step of the process. We provide a comfortable, welcoming environment and work closely with you to address any concerns you may have.

FAQs About Apicoectomy at Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants

1. How long does an apicoectomy take at Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants? The procedure typically takes between 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case. Our team will keep you informed and ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

2. Is the apicoectomy procedure painful? Apicoectomy is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not experience pain during the surgery. After the procedure, some mild discomfort or swelling is common, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

3. What is the recovery like after an apicoectomy? Recovery is generally quick, with most patients experiencing mild discomfort and swelling for a few days. Full recovery of the gum tissue may take a few weeks, and bone healing can take several months. A follow-up visit will be scheduled to ensure proper healing.

4. Can an apicoectomy fail? While apicoectomies are highly successful, there are rare instances when the infection may return or the procedure may not fully resolve the problem. If this happens, we will discuss alternative treatments, such as retreatment or tooth extraction.

5. How much does an apicoectomy cost at Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants? The cost of an apicoectomy can vary based on the complexity of the case and the number of roots involved. We will provide you with a clear estimate of the cost during your consultation, and we offer flexible payment options to ensure you receive the care you need.

6. Can I eat after an apicoectomy? After the procedure, it’s recommended to avoid chewing on the treated side of your mouth for a few days. Stick to soft foods and follow the aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.

7. Will I need follow-up care after my apicoectomy? Yes, we will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing and ensure that there are no complications. Our team will continue to provide support and care as needed throughout your recovery.

8. Why should I choose Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants for my apicoectomy? At Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we combine expertise, advanced technology, and compassionate care to help you preserve your natural teeth. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the best possible outcome in a comfortable and caring environment.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort or infection after a root canal treatment, an apicoectomy may be the solution you need. At Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we specialize in this advanced procedure to help you preserve your tooth and restore your oral health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let our expert team guide you through the process with care and precision.

Reach out to Greater Maryland Oral Surgery & Dental Implants today to learn more about apicoectomy and how we can help you maintain your smile!