Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy) at Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Expert Apicoectomy Care in Loudoun County

At Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our skilled surgeons – Dr. Andrew E. Bluhm, Dr. Steve S. Dorsch, Dr. Gene A. “Jay” Vandervort, and Dr. Amir Itani – provide advanced apicoectomy treatments at our South Riding, Ashburn, and Leesburg locations. We’re here to help you achieve lasting relief and improved oral health.

What Is an Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure that treats infections at the root of a tooth after a root canal. During this procedure, the tip of the tooth’s root (known as the “apex”) is removed along with any surrounding infected tissue, and the area is sealed to prevent future infection. This approach is often the last step to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.

When Is an Apicoectomy Needed?

An apicoectomy may be recommended when:

• A root canal has not fully resolved the infection: In some cases, residual bacteria remain at the root tip, causing continued discomfort or swelling.
• Repeated infections occur at the root: When infection recurs after one or more root canals, an apicoectomy may provide a lasting solution.
• Other endodontic treatments are ineffective: If other endodontic treatments fail, an apicoectomy can address deep-root infections directly.

Our skilled surgeons will assess your condition using advanced imaging technology, such as the i-CAT™ Cone Beam Scanner, to determine if an apicoectomy is the right option for you.

The Apicoectomy Procedure

1. Consultation and Planning: Your surgeon will first conduct a thorough evaluation to confirm that an apicoectomy is appropriate. In some cases, anesthesia & IV sedation is offered to ensure your comfort.
2. Removing the Root Tip: During the procedure, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the tooth’s root. The infected tissue and the root tip are carefully removed.
3. Sealing the Root End: The root end is cleaned, reshaped, and sealed to prevent future infection.
4. Healing: Following the procedure, the gum tissue is sutured back into place, and the area heals over the next few weeks. We may use Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) to accelerate healing and improve tissue regeneration.

An apicoectomy is generally a straightforward, outpatient procedure, allowing you to go home the same day. Most patients experience only mild discomfort afterward, which subsides as the area heals.

Benefits of an Apicoectomy

An apicoectomy offers several advantages:

• Preservation of Natural Teeth: This procedure can save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction, helping to maintain your natural smile and bite function.
• Minimally Invasive: By targeting the specific area of infection, an apicoectomy provides a focused solution with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
• Effective Relief: Patients often experience complete relief from pain and infection after the procedure, restoring comfort and dental health.

Reduced Need for Extraction and Replacement: Saving a natural tooth can eliminate the need for further restorative treatments, such as dental implants or bridges.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following an apicoectomy, our team will provide comprehensive Surgical Instructions to guide you through a smooth recovery. Patients are encouraged to rest, avoid heavy physical activity, and follow specific dietary guidelines to promote healing. Over-the-counter pain relief is typically sufficient, but prescription medication may be provided if necessary.

For more details about treatment costs, please see our Financial Options, and contact us with any questions about insurance or payment plans.

Why Choose Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for an Apicoectomy?

Our surgeons are highly experienced in endodontic surgery and work with the latest technology to ensure precision and effectiveness in each procedure. With a commitment to patient-centered care and a focus on safety, Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery offers top-quality apicoectomy treatments designed to meet each patient’s unique needs.

Our offices in South Riding, Ashburn, and Leesburg provide convenient access to endodontic care across Northern Virginia. We work with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes comfort and long-term dental health.