Apicoectomy (Root End Surgery) in Brentwood, CA

At Fairview Dental Brentwood, we believe in doing everything possible to save your natural teeth. Sometimes, a standard root canal treatment isn’t enough to clear an infection that has settled at the very tip of the tooth’s root. When an infection persists or recurs in the bony area around the root tip, Dr. Thuc Luu performs an Apicoectomy.

Also known as “root end surgery,” an apicoectomy is a microsurgical procedure designed to remove the infected tip of the root and seal the canal from the bottom up. This procedure is often the last, most effective line of defense to prevent tooth loss.

When is an Apicoectomy Necessary?

An apicoectomy is typically recommended when a conventional Root Canal Treatment has failed or is not feasible. Common reasons include:

• Persistent Infection: Bacteria remaining in the tiny, complex branches at the end of the root (the “delta”) that cannot be reached through the top of the tooth.
• Calcified Canals: When the root canals are too narrow or blocked for standard root canal instruments to pass through.
• Fractured Root Tips: To remove a small, damaged portion of the root that is causing chronic inflammation.
• Cyst Formation: To remove a cyst that has formed at the base of the tooth as a result of a long-standing infection.
• Blocked Canals: If a tooth has a post or a crown that is difficult to remove without risking a fracture, an apicoectomy allows us to treat the root directly.

The Apicoectomy Procedure: A Microsurgical Approach

Dr. Luu utilizes precision instruments and high-magnification technology to ensure the procedure is thorough and minimally invasive.

1. Advanced 3D Imaging

We use 3D CBCT Imaging to map the exact location of the infection and the proximity of the root to nerves and sinuses. This allows for a much smaller surgical “window” and more predictable results.

2. Surgical Access

After the area is completely numbed with local anesthesia, a small incision is made in the gum tissue near the tooth to expose the underlying bone and the infected root tip.

3. Root End Removal and Sealing

• Resection: The very tip of the root (usually just 2–3 millimeters) is removed.
• Cleaning: The infected tissue surrounding the tip is carefully cleared out.
• Retrofilling: A small filling is placed at the end of the root to seal the canal from the bottom. This prevents bacteria from ever re-entering the tooth.

4. Healing

The gum tissue is closed with small, dissolvable stitches. Over the next few months, the bone will naturally grow back around the sealed root end, fully restoring the tooth’s stability.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients return to their normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. Because the procedure is performed on the gum tissue rather than through the tooth, post-operative discomfort is usually very manageable.

• Initial Healing: You may experience minor swelling or bruising for the first few days. Ice packs applied to the outside of the face are highly effective.
• Dietary Tips: Stick to soft foods for the first 2–3 days to avoid irritating the stitches.
• Oral Hygiene: We will provide an antimicrobial rinse. It is important to avoid vigorous brushing directly over the surgical site for the first week.
• Trusted Resource: Review the American Association of Endodontists guide on Endodontic Surgery for more information.

Why Choose Fairview Dental for Root End Surgery?

Dr. Thuc Luu combines over 20 years of experience with a commitment to preserving natural dentition.

• Precision Microsurgery: Our focus on microsurgical techniques means smaller incisions, less discomfort, and faster healing times.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: We use 3D imaging and ultrasonic instruments to ensure the root end is cleaned and sealed with surgical accuracy.
• Comprehensive Care: We provide a seamless experience, from initial diagnosis to the final follow-up, ensuring your tooth remains healthy for the long term.

Save Your Tooth with Expert Care

If you have a tooth that remains painful or sensitive after a root canal, don’t assume it needs to be pulled. An apicoectomy might be the perfect solution to save your natural smile.

Call us today at (925) 240-7253 or visit our office in the Shops at Fairview to schedule your appointment.