The Procedure
An apicectomy is performed under some sort of sedation, so you should not feel any pain. Generally, a local anesthetic is used. Your dentist will make a small hole in the gum over the root of the tooth. This serves as a “window” to expose the root so the dentist knows how much of the tooth’s root to remove.
The dentist uses a drill to remove the portion of the root. He or she will also remove any infected tissues. The dentist may then decide to add medicated filling material into the tooth’s canal. Once the procedure is complete, the gum is moved back into place and several stitches are used to reconnect the gums. These stitches typically dissolve in several days and help with recovery.
What to Expect After an Apicectomy
It could take up to a week to recover from an apicectomy. Expect some pain and swelling during this time. Your dentist will likely prescribe some strong pain relievers. The bone around the affected tooth could take up to six months to fully heal.
Contact Us Today
If you are experiencing dental pain after having a root canal, we invite you to call Arlington Dental Excellence at (703)420-3253. We can help you set up an appointment with our dentist to learn if you need an apicectomy in Arlington, Virginia.
