Can your tooth be saved after a failed root canal? Sometimes, a tooth that has received a root canal doesn’t heal as we hope. When infection returns or pain continues at the root tip, you might need a special procedure called an apicoectomy. Apicoectomy treatment in Woodland Hills, CA, can save your natural tooth when other options haven’t worked.
What Is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a small dental surgery that removes the tip of a tooth’s root. This helps clean out any infection that remains at the end of the root, even after a root canal. It is also called root-end surgery or root-end resection. It targets the area at the base of your tooth root, where infection can sometimes hide, even after root canal treatment.
Please note that we may not offer this treatment at our office. Call for more information.
Why You Might Need This Treatment
An apicoectomy becomes necessary when:
Your previous root canal treatment didn’t fully heal the tooth
An infection or abscess develops at the root tip
The tooth canals are too narrow or curved for standard cleaning
X-rays show continued problems even after root canal therapy
If you’re looking for apicoectomy treatment near you, these signs may indicate that it’s time to consult a dental professional to determine if this procedure can help save your tooth.
Benefits That Make a Difference
Keep Your Natural Tooth
This procedure helps you avoid extraction and keep your real tooth, which is always the optimal choice for your mouth.
Quick Recovery
Most patients experience improvement within a few days and return to normal activities promptly.
High Success Rate
When performed correctly, apicoectomies are successful in more than 90 percent of cases.
Less Invasive
The procedure requires only a small cut in your gum tissue, making it easier on your body than major surgery.
Understanding the Procedure
Our Dentist in Woodland Hills, CA, uses a local anesthetic to completely numb the area. The entire process typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes. First, a small opening is made in the gum near the tooth root. Then, the infected root tip is gently removed and thoroughly cleaned. After that, the end of the root is sealed with a safe material to prevent any future infection from recurring.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Many dental insurance plans cover an apicoectomy if it’s needed due to a failed root canal. Our team can explain your benefits step by step, review what your plan includes, and help you explore payment options so everything works comfortably within your budget.
Preserve Your Smile Explore Your Treatment Options Today
If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or a root canal that hasn’t healed properly, we’re here to help. Contact our Dentist Near you to discuss whether an apicoectomy treatment in Woodland Hills, CA, or another treatment is right for you. Your natural teeth are worth saving!
Common Questions About Apicoectomy Procedures
How long does recovery take after an apicoectomy?
Most people recover within a few days to one week. Your specific healing time depends on your overall health and the complexity of your procedure.
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
No, the area is completely numbed with local anesthetic. You might feel some pressure, but you shouldn’t feel pain during the surgery itself. If you are looking for apicoectomy treatment near you, knowing that the procedure is comfortable and well-managed can help you feel more relaxed.
Is an apicoectomy always successful?
The procedure has a success rate of over 90 percent when performed correctly. Following our dentist’s after-care instructions helps ensure the optimal results.
Can I eat normally after the procedure?
You’ll need to stick with soft foods for the first few days. Our dentist near you will provide you with specific dietary guidelines tailored to your individual situation.
What happens if an apicoectomy doesn't work?
If the tooth still doesn’t heal, extraction might become necessary. However, this rarely happens when the procedure is done correctly.
Local Endodontic Surgery & Apicoectomy in Woodland Hills & Surrounding Communities
If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain or infection following a root canal, John M. Chaves, DDS provides specialized apicoectomy and root-end microsurgery to help you save your natural tooth. Conveniently located at 5312 Comercio Ln Suite A in Woodland Hills, our practice proudly serves patients throughout the West San Fernando Valley.
Our local service area for endodontic surgery and apicoectomy treatment includes:
Woodland Hills, CA: Comprehensive root-end surgery and emergency dental care close to home.
Calabasas, CA: Just minutes away for patients seeking expert care after a failed root canal.
West Hills, CA: Accessible, gentle surgical endodontics to preserve your natural smile.
Canoga Park, CA: Reliable local tooth-saving procedures and surgical consultations.
Tarzana, CA: Specialized dental surgery and advanced root repair treatments.
To schedule an apicoectomy consultation with Dr. John M. Chaves, contact our office at (818) 805-1749 or request an appointment online today.