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When traditional root canal treatments fail to resolve persistent tooth infections, apicoectomy surgery offers a solution to save your natural tooth and eliminate pain. This microsurgical procedure targets infection at the root tip with precision and effectiveness, potentially preventing the need for extraction. At Burien Endodontics, we provide apicoectomy procedures using advanced technology and gentle techniques to help patients from Burien, Kent, Federal Way, SeaTac, and Normandy Park overcome stubborn dental infections.
Dr. Matthew P. Tomala leads our endodontic practice, bringing training in microsurgical techniques to every procedure. With our state-of-the-art facility and advanced technology, we focus on endodontic care and preserving the natural tooth structure, ensuring you receive treatment from a team that performs these procedures routinely with strong results.
If you've had a root canal, but the tooth is still causing pain, swelling, or signs of infection, an apicoectomy may be the best option to save it. This minor surgical procedure removes infection at the root tip when conventional root canal retreatment is not enough. By precisely targeting the affected area, an apicoectomy eliminates bacteria, preserves your natural tooth, and prevents further complications.
At Burien Endodontics, we focus on minimally invasive apicoectomies, using advanced CBCT imaging and microsurgical techniques to ensure precise treatment and a smooth recovery. Our goal is to provide comfortable, effective care so you can keep your natural tooth for years to come.
An apicoectomy, also known as root-end surgery, is a minor surgical procedure performed when a previous root canal treatment has not fully healed or infection persists at the tip of the tooth's root. While traditional root canal therapy effectively removes infection inside the tooth, some cases require surgical intervention to completely eliminate bacteria and preserve the natural tooth. Learn more about endodontic surgery and the broader range of surgical treatments we provide.
Specialized root canal therapy and endodontic treatment delivered with precision and compassion.
An apicoectomy is often recommended when a previous root canal has not fully healed or complications arise that cannot be addressed with conventional retreatment. If left untreated, these issues can lead to persistent pain, infection, or further damage, ultimately putting the tooth at risk of extraction. Here are some common reasons why an apicoectomy may be necessary:
While root canal therapy is highly successful, in some cases, bacteria may remain at the very tip of the tooth's root, leading to persistent infection. This can cause swelling, tenderness, and even the formation of an abscess. If a root canal alone cannot fully eliminate the infection, an apicoectomy is needed to remove the infected root tip and surrounding tissue.
Sometimes, an untreated or persistent infection at the root tip can result in the formation of a cyst or a chronic abscess, which may continue growing and damaging the surrounding bone. These cysts do not always respond to traditional root canal retreatment, requiring surgical removal to fully resolve the infection.
Teeth can have complex root structures, including small, hidden canals that may go undetected during an initial root canal. If bacteria remain trapped in these areas, they can continue to cause infection. An apicoectomy allows the endodontist to access and clean these hard-to-reach areas.
In some cases, a tooth may have already undergone retreatment but continues to show signs of infection or discomfort. If retreatment has been unsuccessful, or if the tooth's anatomy makes another non-surgical procedure ineffective, an apicoectomy may be the best alternative.
Chronic infection at the root tip can lead to bone loss, weakening the foundation that supports the tooth. By performing an apicoectomy and removing the source of infection, we can help stimulate bone regeneration and restore the integrity of the affected area.
If left untreated, an infection at the tip of a tooth's root can lead to pain, swelling, and even bone damage, putting the tooth at risk of extraction. An apicoectomy can save the tooth and prevent further complications.
At Burien Endodontics, we take a minimally invasive approach to ensure a smooth recovery. Here's what you can expect during your procedure:
Before performing an apicoectomy, Dr. Tomala takes a detailed CBCT scan to get a three-dimensional view of the tooth, root, and surrounding bone. This advanced imaging allows us to identify the exact location and extent of the infection and plan the most precise surgical approach.
We administer a local anesthetic to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. Modern anesthesia techniques make apicoectomy surgery a much more comfortable experience than most patients expect.
A small incision is made in the gum tissue near the affected tooth to expose the root tip and surrounding infected tissue. Using specialized microsurgical instruments and our dental operating microscope, we carefully remove the infected tissue and the tip of the root.
After removing the infected tissue and root tip, we clean the area and place a small biocompatible filling at the end of the root canal to seal it and prevent bacteria from re-entering.
The gum tissue is sutured closed and you will receive detailed post-operative care instructions. Most patients experience only mild swelling and discomfort that resolves within a few days. A follow-up appointment is scheduled to monitor healing and confirm the success of the procedure.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort following an apicoectomy, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Some swelling and bruising around the surgical site is normal and usually resolves within a few days. We recommend avoiding hard foods and strenuous activity immediately after the procedure.
Healing occurs in stages. Initial tissue healing takes place over the first few weeks, while bone regeneration in the area around the root tip may take several months to complete. The long-term success rate for apicoectomy surgery performed by an endodontic specialist is high, with many studies reporting success rates between 85% and 95% when performed using modern microsurgical techniques.
Our practice uses Global A-Series 6 Step Dental Microscopes for enhanced precision during every surgical procedure. We also utilize CBCT scanning and digital radiography to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Learn more about our technology and the tools Dr. Tomala uses to deliver care above the standard.
Laser therapy is also part of our standard approach, used during and after procedures to support disinfection, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing. These tools, combined with Dr. Tomala's specialized training, mean that patients at Burien Endodontics receive a level of care that goes well beyond what is available at most general dental practices.
Dr. Tomala is a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and completed his advanced endodontic training at the University of Washington, where he also earned his Master of Science in Dentistry. He continues his association with UW as an affiliate assistant faculty member and is a member of the American Association of Endodontists.
Our practice is dedicated exclusively to endodontic care, which means every member of our team is focused on providing you the best possible endodontic experience. We serve patients throughout Burien, Kent, Federal Way, SeaTac, and Normandy Park, and no referral is required to schedule an appointment.
The cost of an apicoectomy varies depending on the tooth involved, the complexity of the procedure, and your insurance coverage. Most dental insurance plans that cover root canal therapy also provide partial coverage for apicoectomy surgery, as it is considered a medically necessary endodontic procedure. Our front office team will verify your benefits before your appointment and provide a clear estimate of your portion prior to treatment. For patients without insurance or with remaining balances, we offer financing options to make care accessible.
If you're experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection in a previously treated tooth, an apicoectomy may be the solution to saving it. At Burien Endodontics, Dr. Tomala and our team perform minimally invasive apicoectomy procedures using advanced CBCT imaging and microsurgical techniques to ensure precise treatment and a smooth recovery. We serve patients throughout Burien, Kent, Federal Way, SeaTac, Normandy Park, and the greater King County area. Contact our office to schedule your consultation same-day appointments are available for urgent cases.
