Apicoectomy: Will This Effect Future Dental Implant Treatment?

Susan asks:

My two front teeth were broken 20 years ago, and I had a root canal. Last month, I had two new crowns placed and now am told i need an apicoectomy. My concern is if they remove bone on the front tooth, and I am certain in 10 years or less I will require a frontal implant, will the apicoectomy affect the aesthetics or ease of the eventual implant? I have a very high smile line.

Answered by: Dr. David R. Edenbaum

Marlton, NJ

Hi Susan,

Endodontists have a great deal of technology at their disposal in the performance of apicoectomies that can maximize success and minimize esthetic concerns such as lasers and microscopes.

However, if your dentist and endodontist feel you will lose this tooth, or both teeth in the future, considering extraction and immediate placement of two implants in the position of these teeth now, to preserve esthetics and ensure a good long-term prognosis may be the best solution.

It is important to be sure that any infection at the root tip is resolved either at the time of implant placement or before placing implants. I would advise you discuss these options with your dentist and obtain a periodontists’s opinion as well.