Apicoectomy

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 Dr. Schapiro, Dr. Elsner or Dr. Lautman 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 above 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.

A diagram of infected tissue in the bone near root tip of tooth
1. Infected Tissue
A representation of an incision made and infected tissue being removed from bone
2. Tissue Removed
An illustration of filling material placed in removed bone area and held with suture
3. Suture Placed
An example of the bone completely healed after a apicoectomy procedure
4. Healing Complete

What should I expect after an apicoectomy?

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.

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Jordan L. Schapiro D.D.S. Endodontics

5 out of 5 stars based on 61 Apecoectomy reviews

Endodontist Patient Review By Baron F in Boca Raton

Dr Elsner is just one awesome endodontist. Everyone dreads the thought of getting a root canal. Well let me tell you, Dr Elsner has that magic touch that makes a not so pleasant experience seem like a “walk in the park”. She has such a kind and caring manner that you just know right away that all is going to be perfect. Throughout the entire procedure she is constantly making sure you are comfortable and letting you know how far along she is in the procedure. I just finished up my follow up to my original root canal and I can assure you Dr Elsner will be at the top of my list if I should need another root canal. From the moment you enter the office you are greeted by office staff with a smile and a pleasant greeting. Hats off to everyone at Schapiro/Elsner Endodontics.

- Baron F

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Baron F in Boca Raton

No words can express my appreciation to Dr. Elsner and the entire staff at Schapiro Endodontics. On Sunday afternoon (3/14/2021) I left a message on the answering service explaining that I was in terrible pain from a tooth that needed a root canal. Early Monday morning I received a call back from the office and was told both dentists had a full schedule for the day, but they would try to fit me in. Within 30 minutes they called back and said that Dr. Elsner would be able to see me a 1 pm that day. What a great front office staff that shows such concern knowing a patient is in pain. This was my first visit with Dr. Elsner and she greeted me like she had known me all my life. She immediately made me feel comfortable knowing that I was in such pain. Both her professional and bedside manner are beyond approach. During the entire procedure she kept asking me how I was doing and made sure I was always comfortable. I have had many root canals in the past, but I will say this was the best experience ever. I had very little pain and felt very relaxed. Dr. Elsner had explained what I could expect during the procedure and followed up afterwards what can be expected in the next few days. That evening she personally called me to make sure I was doing well and insisted that if I have and questions or problems to please call her back. Many thanks to Dr. Elsner and the entire staff at Schapiro Endodontics.

- Baron F

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Kim in Boca Raton

Dr Elsner is amazing. She takes the time to ensure your comfort. Her tone and patient care are extremely professional!

- Kim

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Jason K in Boca Raton

Dr elsner has a very professional staff.

- Jason K

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Jeff S in Boca Raton

Very pleasant experience, all good..

- Jeff S

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By John G in Boca Raton

Dr. Elsner was gentle, kind, informative, and answered all my questions. One of if not the best dentist I have ever had in the last 55+ years. I highly recommend her to anyone

- John G

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Kara A in Boca Raton

If a root canal can be a good experience, this was a great experience! I would recommend seeing Dr. Elsner to everyone for their Endodontic needs.

- Kara A

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Merryl C in Boca Raton

Dr. Elsner is fantastic

- Merryl C

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Ronnie R in Boca Raton

Office staff fantastic. So caring and efficient Dr. Schapiro was professional and gentle. Very caring as well.

- Ronnie R

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Mike B in Boca Raton

Very nice people

- Mike B

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By John N in Boca Raton

Good

- John N

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Mark W in Boca Raton

Dr. Elsner is a superbly competent endodontist. Her personal interaction and “bedside” manner put her patients at ease. She follows up by phone and in succeeding visits. She handles difficult questions with equanimity and with appropriate professionalism. Her staff are similarly competent and personable. From my experience, I recommend her and her office without hesitation.

- Mark W

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Patrick W in Boca Raton

Very organized office prompt care on very short notice

- Patrick W

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Andrew R in Boca Raton

If you need a root canal Dr Shapiro is the doctor you want to see. I’ve had three root canals - the experience is much better than you would expect. Dr Shapiro even calls to check on you!

- Andrew R

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Amir S in Boca Raton

This is my 2nd time and super professional service from the doctor and the staff

- Amir S

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Rachelle A in Boca Raton

I have only positive comments to make about Dr. Schapiro and his staff.

- Rachelle A

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Al L in Boca Raton

Dr. Elsner and her staff are some of the most professional people I have had the pleasure to work with the follow up and care is amazing!!!

- Al L

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Yndira M in Boca Raton

Amazing Dr, very gentle and polite, five star treatment! 🙂

- Yndira M

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Jill F in Boca Raton

Everyone in the office is so professional and caring. Dr Shapiro was so gentle ! Best experience at a dentist office ever

- Jill F

5 out of 5 stars on

Endodontist Patient Review By Raymond f in Boca Raton

I’m a difficult patient and normally hate going to dentist, however Dr. Shapiro, is thoughtful, and gentle and I never feel any pain. The man is a saint.

- Raymond f

5 out of 5 stars on