Follow-Up
You’re likely to experience some pain or discomfort following an apicoectomy, as you will have infected tissue removed and be injected with anesthetics. Avoid eating while you’re still experiencing any numbness to avoid harming your mouth or stitches.
As your apicoectomy removes infected tissue, you could feel better than you did quickly after the surgery!
But what’s the normal recovery time? According to the American Association of Endodontists, pain after surgery is generally low, and many return to their normal routines the day after surgery. However, it can take several months for the bone to heal around the root fully.
Steps you can take after your apicoectomy:
- Practice your dental routine especially gently as not to aggravate sensitive areas
- Avoid smoking, crunchy foods, or damaging any stitches
- Take medications as prescribed and follow provided aftercare instructions
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories to help with discomfort or swelling
- Follow up with your dental professional if your stitches require removal (many dissolve on their own!)
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for twenty minutes on, twenty minutes off (according to the Cleveland Clinic)
Though dental procedures can be challenging, many find their apicoectomy to require less recovery than a root canal treatment.
Important note: Contact your dental professional if you’re experiencing unusual or extreme symptoms. Be on the lookout for abnormal pain, swelling, numbness, or find signs of infection (like discharge draining into your mouth). When in doubt, it's best to reach out for professional advice.