WEBVTT

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When a tooth becomes damaged or decayed
 and is left untreated,

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infection can reach the inner
 parts of the tooth called the pulp.

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The pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels
 and tissue, and an infection of the pulp

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can cause great pain and discomfort
 to treat such an infection.

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Your dentist may perform a root canal.

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Most root canal treatments
 will provide results that last a lifetime.

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But there are times when a tooth
 may not heal properly after a root canal.

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When this happens,
 you may require a Apicoectomy.

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A Apicoectomy is a surgical endodontic
 procedure that involves

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removing the tip of your tooth's roots
 called the apex.

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The roots of your teeth

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reach down into the jawbone,
 where they are securely held in place.

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If a dental root becomes infected,
 the infection can spread into the bone

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and require additional,
 more extensive treatment.

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A Apicoectomy helps
 to prevent your supporting bone structures

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from becoming infected
 before performing a Apicoectomy.

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Your dentist will consult with you
 about previous dental treatments

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and any pain you may be experiencing.

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Your dentist may also take X-rays
 to look at the problem area

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and determine whether a Apicoectomy
 is the appropriate treatment.

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These X-rays will also help your dentist
 to pinpoint the exact location

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of the infection,

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which helps the treatment run smoothly
 and provide optimal results.

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The procedure for performing
 a Apicoectomy is fairly straightforward.

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It begins by making a small incision
 in your gums close to the infected tooth.

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This incision allows your dentist to see
 the tooth roots and supporting bone.

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All infected or damaged tissue is removed

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from the surrounding area,
 along with the tip of the root.

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Next, the end of the root is sealed off
 with a small filling,

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and the gums are stitched up
 during the following months.

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The supporting bone will heal and continue
 to grow around the treated roots,

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providing full stability for your tooth.

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After your treatment is complete,

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you may experience some swelling
 or bruising in the treated area.

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These effects typically subside
 after a few days,

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and you can take over-the-counter
 pain medication to help

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relieve any discomfort
 during the healing process.

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It is important to be extra careful
 around the surgical site,

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avoid brushing around the area
 or rinsing too vigorously.

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Do not eat crunchy or hard foods
 that can poke the surgical site

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and avoid touching the stiches
 Stitches are typically removed

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within seven to 10 days
 or once gum tissue has healed.

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If you have had a root canal in the past
 and are experiencing dental pain,

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talk to your dentist.

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It is better to receive any necessary
 treatment early on

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than to wait and require more complex
 and expensive treatment later.

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Your dentist can help, you know,

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if a Apicoectomy is what you need
 to restore your oral health.