Periapical Surgery
What is it, and when is this treatment recommended?
Periapical surgery is a dental technique that can change the fate of a tooth thought to be lost, extending its functional life, sometimes for many years. It is, therefore, an oral surgery technique that should be frequently utilized in dental clinics. To understand its particularities, a detailed analysis of its various characteristics is required.
Its ultimate goal is the elimination of a bone infection caused by a necrotic tooth. Most commonly, this occurs in teeth that have undergone root canal treatment in the past, but where the treatment has failed and the tooth causes discomfort or begins to suppurate again. The emergence of a new infection does not necessarily imply that the previous root canal was poorly performed; even technically sound endodontic treatments can develop issues over time. Another common indication for periapical surgery is when the infection grows significantly in size. The surgery allows us to remove it radically and send it for analysis to rule out any serious health concerns.
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«We came all the way from Japan specifically for this surgery.».
What does periapical surgery involve?
The first step of periapical surgery or apicoectomy is surgical access to the tips of the infected roots to clean out the infection. Next, the end of the tooth is prepared to perform a root-end filling (similar to a filling) from within. The goal is to stop the passage of bacteria from inside the tooth into the bone. After this, sutures are placed, and the results will be visible shortly.
Before undergoing the procedure, it is essential to keep in mind that this technique is highly sensitive to the operator’s skill and the available resources, being one of the most meticulous techniques in dentistry. The use of advanced visualization tools (such as endoscopes or microscopes) and bleeding control methods (such as lasers, electrosurgery, and coagulating substances) significantly increases the chances of success. Combined with the surgeon’s experience and training, periapical surgery at our dental clinic can save up to 90% of infected teeth.
Dental implant or periapical surgery?
Although dental implants in Valencia are increasingly common and advanced techniques allow for the resolution of most cases of missing teeth, the philosophy behind periapical surgery is completely different: it aims to preserve the natural tooth. Due to its superior functional characteristics, saving the patient’s natural tooth should be chosen over an implant whenever possible. Only when the tooth is severely damaged and restoration is difficult, or when it complicates the rest of the oral rehabilitation treatment, is periapical surgery not indicated for an infected tooth with endodontic failure.
As you have seen, periapical surgery is a highly safe treatment that can give an additional life to a tooth we thought had to be extracted. At our dental clinic in Valencia, we have been successfully performing this technique for many years, and we also have extensive experience in dental implants. That is precisely why we are convinced that before resorting to implants, periapical surgery is often indicated to save infected teeth. With the most advanced technologies and appropriate knowledge, it is possible to save up to 90% of these teeth.
Experts in Periapical Surgery
We have authored several books on periapical surgery. We lead a pioneering group in periapical surgery, with numerous international publications on the subject.
The Spanish Society of Oral Surgery (SECIB) has developed a clinical practice guide for periapical surgery for both dentists and patients. We collaborated on this guide, providing recommendations based on scientific evidence.
Book an appointment for your periapical surgery in Valencia
At the IDIM Institute of Implantology, led by the Peñarrocha doctors, we don’t just care for your smile—we provide effective solutions, backed by our extensive experience and dedication.
With over 30 years of specialization in dental implantology, we apply advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology to ensure the best results for our patients.
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