Overview of Endodontic Surgery
The goal of a root canal is to fully remove the infection from your tooth, but the tooth roots have multiple tiny branches where bacteria may remain or come back. If your tooth gets re-infected after you have had a root canal done, our team of board-certified endodontic specialists typically recommend an apicoectomy. An effective solution, an apicoectomy takes out any infection in the gum and bone near the tooth's root, plus the affected tip or tips. Also known as a root-end resection or endodontic microsurgery, an apicoectomy may save the upper area of the tooth and avoid disturbing a dental restoration (crown or bridge).
The Apicoectomy Process
To begin the treatment, local anesthesia will be applied to needed areas. Sedation methods can be added based on the complexity of your treatment or for dental anxiety and fears. We will start by creating an incision through the gum tissue to reveal the tooth's root. Any infected tips and surrounding tissue will be addressed before the area is thoroughly cleaned. To make sure the infection is completely removed, a dental dye will highlight tooth cracks. As soon as your tooth is sealed, we can close the gums using sutures.
Western Mass Endo Reviews
Had a root canal today and was SCHOCKED to get a text tonight from Dr. Shapiro doing followup and checking to see if I was ok. Can you believe that. - to get a proactive communication from a doctor or dentist checking to see if I was ok! There is no higher level of service that you could ever want. The procedure itself went very smoothly and Dr. Shapiro answered all my questions. I highly recommend this practice!
Hands down, one of the best doctor's office I have visited! The office staff is friendly, compassionate and efficient. Dr Shapiro and his assistants are a fine tuned machine. It is obvious they are experts in what they do. Twice I needed emergency root canals. Both times they were able to fit me in much quicker than I expected. As I mentioned, all staff was very kind and understanding. I have and continue to recommend them with 100% confidence.
Exceptional care from start to finish! Dr. Scott is an outstanding endodontist—kind, caring, and compassionate. He takes the time to thoroughly explain everything, ensuring patients feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. His surgical skill is top-notch, and his bedside manner is truly exceptional. The entire staff is equally wonderful—friendly, helpful, and always going above and beyond to make the experience as smooth as possible. On top of that, the office itself is beautiful, creating a calm and welcoming environment. I’m so grateful to have found this practice and highly recommend it to anyone in need of expert endodontic care!
I had a tooth infection during the holidays and WME was able to take me in right away. I highly recommend them, especially Dr. Eric Shapiro. Dr Shapiro is extremely talented and kind. The staff I encountered were also very kind. Even though it's a long drive for me to get there (out of state), I'll be going back to see Eric if I ever need another root canal!!
Amazing experience. Got straight to the point and had me out of there in 45 minutes. I felt no pain at all. Thank you so much!
550
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Average Rating
Recovering From an Apicoectomy
After an apicoectomy, a member of our team may write a prescription for antibiotics or pain medication. You can use cold compresses or ice packs to reduce inflammation for the first day following your procedure. You might experience some numbness, soreness, or bruising for 3 – 5 days. One of our endodontic specialists will talk to you about further instructions for your recovery period.