Will Apicoectomy save the tooth? Or should I remove it and go for an implant?

Question

In may this year I had RTC done on 21 due to trauma (half tooth got broken). The tooth was overfilled with GP and I got inflamation. GP was removed but the lesion is still there and it’s very painful. I had several temporary fillings since then, but tooth is still painful. Dentist is suggesting Apicoectomy. Will it help or shall I remove the tooth and go for implant. Looks like there is not much bone left. Thank you!

Richard Champagne, DMD, MAGD · Answer

From your description, it sounds like this tooth is fairly compromised and and  will require “heroics” to be saved. In situations like this, I fully explain both options to my patient, but will often guide them towards the more predictable solution. In this case, that would be removing  this compromised tooth, performing a bone graft, and then replacing the tooth with a dental implant.I hope you found the information to be helpful,Dr. Champagne

Yocasta Caba, DDS · Answer

Everything does to save your tooth is and good option for you… An implant is a good option but just in case the tooth can be save.

Sanaz Vahid, DDS · Answer

Hello,
An apicoectomy is always an option. However an implant may be a better choice due to the fact that it is more predictable in my opinion.

Ian Hallam, MBE, BDS · Answer

It is difficult to advise without seeing an Xray but generally, if a root canal treatment is not successful the prognosis for the tooth is not great.
An apicoectomy may resolve the problem but you may go through this surgical procedure, have a period of healing of several months and the problem may recur.
The advice that I give to my patients is that the success of an apicoectomy is not guaranteed and it may ultimately require an implant. If the patient wishes to go ahead on that basis as a last resort it is worth doing.
Otherwise, just accept that the tooth is troublesome and needs to be removed and go ahead with an implant which should be a successful long-term solution.
Best wishes
Dr. Ian Hallam MBE

Will Apicoectomy save the tooth? Or should I remove it and go for an implant?

Answers (4)

Answer: Apicectomy or dental implant

Answer: Apicectomy or dental implant

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Will Apicoectomy save the tooth? Or should I remove it and go for an implant?

Answers (4)

Answer: Apicectomy or dental implant

Answer: Apicectomy or dental implant

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.