Apicoectomy – An overview of endodontic surgery.
Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?
Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, this non-surgical procedure will not be sufficient to heal the tooth and your endodontist will recommend surgery. Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays but still manifest pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure. The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.
What is an Apicoectomy?
The video on the right illustrates this simple procedure. An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and surrounding inflamed tissue. The damaged tissue is removed along with the end of the root tip. A root-end filling is placed to prevent reinfection of the root and the gum is sutured. The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months restoring full function.
Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To alleviate any discomfort, an appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our office.
A. Luis Avilés, DDS, Endodontics
Patient Review
I could not give a higher recommendation. Dr Aviles is superb. He explains everything well as he is working. No surprises. The procedure was entirely painless! His assistant and receptionists were excellent as well. I would rate them as 12 on a 10 point scale
- Joe S
Patient Review
Both the office staff and Dr. Aviles were extremely professional and competent. I wouldn't hesitate to refer in the future.
- Leonard R
Patient Review
Perfect experience—Dr. Avilés and staff were very welcoming, caring, and friendly, and made me feel at ease. Barely felt a thing during my root canal!
- Camille W
Patient Review
Everything was great. Other than the need for dental care I enjoyed the visit. I would absolutely comeback to your office for treatment but the location is a bit of a challenge for me.
- Monika S
Patient Review
Consistently one of the best dental treatment experiences I've had
- Mark B
Patient Review
Everyone at the office was very nice and welcoming. Made feel very comfortable. Doc was precise on his eta for the procedure and virtually painless. 🤘
- John H
Patient Review
I felt I was treated with respect and attention. Great people are working here.
- Michael G
Patient Review
This practice is absolutely amazing. I felt so taken care of for every step of my root canal treatment. I'm so appreciative of the staff for such great care. Thank Dr. Aviles and team!!!!
- Jessica H
Patient Review
Thankyou I practiced dentistry in Bellevue for forty years, taught at U of W dental school parttime 20 years, and was very active in continuing education groups. Dr Aviles defines excellence and staff also . He is my wife Jane and my Endodontist !!
- sherman ely
Patient Review
Overall very impressed with everyone on the staff. I felt welcomed and comfortable. I was also well informed.
- Michael B
Patient Review
You all did an excellent jpb
- Jane E
Patient Review
I went to Dr. Aviles to work on several teeth for root canals. Each time the front staff was so helpful and friendly. Ardith, Dr. Aviles assistant, put me at ease before each procedure and Dr Aviles did an excellent job on both teeth. I would absolutely refer friends and family to their team. He came highly recommended by two separate dentists!
- Tari J
Patient Review
Dr. Aviles is excellent with a very calm demeanor and his staff is friendly and efficient with a genuine regard for their patients. Overall I experienced a positive outcome with minimal pain and discomfort and would definitely recommend his services.
- Sheryl B
Patient Review
They are very professional and very friendly Thank you so much
- Galina N
Patient Review
Great experience
- Scott L
Patient Review
Dr. Aviles was amazing along with his assistant. I had the best experience getting my root canal. The staff is excellent
- Nazaret G
Patient Review
Dr Aviles has created and maintained an endodontic practice that puts a patient at ease the moment they walk through the door with its decor and lighting. The entire staff is friendly, gracious, professional, and compassionate. Dr Aviles gentle manner and clear communication throughout the process and followup speaks volumes about his patient care. I highly recommend Dr Luis Aviles and his staff!
- sandy c
Patient Review
Dr. Aviles and team are world class. Some of the best care I have ever received...and I have received a lot. Good people!
- Chris S
Patient Review
Not that anyone wants to have to go in for this kind of care, but Dr. Aviles and his staff are the best of the best and took the most amazing care of me. Everything was explained so well, everyone was efficient but also caring. I would recommend seeing Dr. Aviles should you need the care of a wonderful endodontist!
- Kristi B
Patient Review
I am a repeat patient with Dr. Aviles. I am always happy with his care; he is kind, professional, and provides detailed information about the procedure so I know what to expect in treatment. I appreciate the care and efficiency of the team he works with, as well. My visit was as pleasant as it could be for having a root canal.
- Nancy M