Riley Dental Associates of Central Virginia
Phone: (434) 385-7707
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3709 Old Forest Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501

Apicoectomy – What is it and Why is it Needed? | Lynchburg VA Dentist

If you have ever needed root canal therapy, you may know that an Endodontist is a dentist who specializes in treatment of the tooth root. However, there are some cases where traditional root canal therapy will not be possible or will not yield the best solution for your infection. In these cases, your dentist may refer you to our office for an apicoectomy. Here’s what you need to know: 

What it is 

An apicoectomy is a minor treatment that involves removing the infected tip of a tooth root, then sealing the interior of the tooth to prevent further infection.  

Why It Is Done 

In most cases, when pulp in the root of a tooth becomes infected, root canal therapy is performed. This removes the infection and prevents it from spreading further. In traditional root canal therapy, the full pulp is removed from the tooth, along with any infected tissue. When this is not possible or previous root canal therapy has failed, an apicoectomy is recommended. 

An apicoectomy is generally performed by a certified Endodontist, like our doctor. You will receive local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout your treatment. We will make a small incision in the gum tissue. The inflamed root tip is then removed and sealed to prevent the infection from spreading. You should expect this treatment to take 30 to 90 minutes. In most cases, an apicoectomy on a front tooth takes less time than one on a lower molar.  

What to expect afterwards 

Like any oral surgery, some discomfort can occur for the first few days following the procedure. When brushing your teeth, you will want to be gentle around the area. Any further discomfort can usually be mitigated with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen. We may prescribe medicine, if needed, to alleviate any discomfort that cannot be managed by over-the-counter medications. Please use medications only as directed by our Lynchburg dentist

Unlike traditional root canal therapy, you may not need to have a dental crown placed following an apicoectomy. 

Acting on root issues as soon as they are detected is your best defense against infection and tooth loss. For more tips on keeping teeth healthy or for questions about apicoectomies, contact Riley Dental Associates today. 

Riley Dental Associates of Central Virginia
Phone: (434) 385-7707
3709 Old Forest Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501

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Lynchburg Dental Office

Lynchburg, VA Dentist

Riley Dental Associates, PC

3709 Old Forest Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501
(434) 385-7707

Providing dental care for the communities of:

Appomattox | Lynchburg | Altavista | Amherst | Big Island | Brookneal | Coleman Falls | Concord | Evington | Forest | Gladys | Goode | Hurt | Long Island Lynch Station | Monroe | Naruna | Rustburg | Spout Spring | Sweet Briar

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Monday:   8am - 5pm
Tuesday:   8am - 5pm
Wednesday:   8am - 5pm
Thursday:   8am - 5pm
Friday:   7am - 3pm

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3709 Old Forest Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501
(434) 385-7707