Endodontic or Apical Surgery

Contact us at 603-882-5455 to schedule an appointment in our Hudson, NH office.

Although root canal therapy is usually all that is needed to save a compromised tooth, sometimes endodontic surgery must be used instead of or in addition to a root canal. Also known as apical microsurgery or apicoectomy, this procedure allows us to identify small fractures or hidden canals that cannot be seen in radiographs, treat damaged root surfaces and bone, and remove calcium deposits from the canals.

What Happens During Apical Microsurgery

Apical surgery is a common endodontic procedure that may be recommended if there is still inflammation or infection in the bone around the tip of the root, or apex, after a root canal treatment.

The affected tooth and gum tissue surrounding it are numbed to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. A small incision is made in the gum, then the apex and any inflamed or infected tissue are removed. If needed, a filling is placed to seal the end of the root canal, then we use sutures to close the incision.

After apical microsurgery, you are likely to experience some swelling and soreness at the incision site. This is typically mild and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients are able to return to work following the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Endodontic Surgery

How long does endodontic surgery take?

Your endodontist will let you know what you can expect during your consultation, as the amount of time needed depends on the complexity of your canal structures.

How painful is an apicoectomy?

Apicoectomy isn’t painful; local anesthetic is used to numb the affected tooth, so you won’t feel any discomfort during the procedure. In the hours after your appointment, as the anesthesia wears off, you’ll notice some tenderness at the site. This is usually mild and can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication.

Are you awake during an apicoectomy?

Most patients opt to stay awake during their apical microsurgery, but we also offer IV sedation for those who require a deeper level of relaxation.

How do you know if you need an apicoectomy?

If you’ve had a root canal treatment, but your tooth is painful again, you may need an apicoectomy or endodontic retreatment. When you come to our office for a consultation, we can advise you on which option is best for your situation.

Does insurance cover endodontic surgery?

Dental insurance plans can vary from one provider to the next, but it’s common for them to cover endodontic surgery. We recommend contacting your insurer to verify your benefits.

Are you looking for an endodontist in Hudson or Hooksett, NH? Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Hudson

182 Central Street

Hudson, NH 03051

603-882-5455

Hookset

1310 Hooksett Road

Hooksett, NH 03106

603-628-2891

Moultonborough

60 Whittier Hwy, Unit 1

Moultonborough, NH 03254

603-253-5224