Apicoectomy vs Root Canal

Sometimes a treated tooth starts to hurt again. This can mean the infection did not fully go away. Dentists may suggest a root canal or an apicoectomy. These two treatments are different but both try to save the tooth. In this article, we explain everything about apicoectomy vs root canal so you can understand the best option.

What Is Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy treats the very tip of the tooth root. This part sits deep in the jawbone under the gum. The dentist removes the infected root tip and cleans the area around it. An apicoectomy helps when the infection stays in the bone after a root canal.

How Does Apicoectomy Work?

Here are the steps:

1. The dentist Kirkland WA numbs the area with a shot.
2. They make a small cut in the gum to reach the tooth root.
3. They remove the infected tip of the root.
4. They clean the area around the root.
5. They seal the end of the root to block bacteria.
6. They close the gum with stitches.
7. You return home the same day.
8. The area heals slowly over a few weeks.

How To Know If You Need An Apicoectomy?

Here are all the signs that may mean you need an apicoectomy:

• Pain in a tooth that already had a root canal
• Swelling in the gums near the tooth
• A bump or pimple on the gum that comes and goes
• Soreness when you press or touch the tooth
• Pain that does not go away with medicine
• X-ray shows infection at the tip of the root
• Infection comes back after a root canal
• Tooth feels loose or uncomfortable
• Bad taste in the mouth near the tooth
• Gum looks red or swollen around the tooth

What Is A Root Canal?

A root canal Seattle treats the inside of the tooth. This part holds the soft tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. The dentist cleans out this space to remove the infection. This stops the pain and keeps the tooth in place. A root canal helps when the problem is inside the tooth.

How Do Root Canals Work?

Here are the steps of root canal:

1. The dentist in Kirkland numbs the area so you do not feel pain.
2. They open the top of the tooth to reach the inside.
3. They remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth.
4. They clean and shape the small canals inside the root.
5. They fill the canals with a special material to stop bacteria.
6. They close the tooth with a filling or a crown.

How To Know If You Need A Root Canal?

Here are signs you may need a root canal:

• Tooth pain that does not go away
• Sharp pain when eating or biting
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that stays for a while
• Swelling in the gums near the tooth
• Tooth looks darker than the others
• Pimple or bump on the gum near the tooth
• X-ray shows infection inside the tooth

Apicoectomy Vs Root Canal: Let’s Recap

Apicoectomy Vs Root Canal is a choice based on the condition of the tooth and how much infection remains. Root canals treat the inside of the tooth and usually work well. Apicoectomies treat the end of the root and come after a root canal if infection returns. Both treatments help save your natural tooth. Dentists choose one based on what part of the tooth has the problem. If you feel pain after a root canal, talk to your dentist about apicoectomy vs root canal to find the best solution.

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