Tooth infected 5 years after apicoectomy - should I have this done again or should I consider a dental implant? (photos)

In my 40 years of practice when apicoectomies fail it I usually due to a fracture in the tooth. I recommend extracting the tooth, and doing a bone graft. Once the bone is mature the implant can be placed.

Remaining root length is insufficient for a second apical resection and a periapical bone loss is seen due to infection. Extraction, bone graft and dental implant placement will be a better and more durable solution.

Most times repeat apicoectomies are not very predictable or successful. Your best bet for the long-term might be to extract the tooth and get an implant. However a thorough evaluation has to be done before deciding on final treatment.Dr. Ajay Kashi

If at first you don't succeed, try and try again... does not apply to dentistry. Another apicoectomy would further shorten the roots and make the tooth more unstable. The first apicoectomy got you another 5/6 years out of the tooth. The second probably wouldn't get you that much time. An implant should last at least 15 years, so if you had gotten an implant instead of the first apicoectomy, you'd be doing just fine for another 10 years from now. Definitely go with the implant.

As a dental implant specialist, I would advise that if a tooth implant is failing due to rejection by the body, re-treatment may not be a viable option. In some cases, a dental implant may fail due to a number of factors, such as improper placement, infection, or a reaction to the implant material.

If a patient is experiencing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or mobility of the implant, it's important to seek prompt dental care. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed to prevent further damage to the surrounding bone and tissue.

After careful evaluation and consultation with the patient, it may be recommended to extract the failing implant and replace it with a new implant. This can help to restore function and aesthetics to the affected area, and can also help to prevent further complications.

It's important to note that the success of a dental implant procedure depends on a number of factors, including the health of the surrounding teeth and gums, the quality and density of the jawbone, and the patient's overall health and lifestyle habits.

Before undergoing any dental implant procedure, it's important to have a thorough consultation and evaluation with a qualified dental implant specialist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs and circumstances. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can provide a long-lasting, effective solution for missing or damaged teeth.