Dental Code D3425: Apicoectomy - molar (first root)

Dental Code D3425, also known as an apicoectomy - molar (first root), is a dental procedure performed when conventional root canal treatment fails to resolve an infection or when complications arise within the root canal system. It involves the removal of the apex or root tip of a molar tooth.

On average, patients pay $900 for this D3425 service at the dentist's office, with as little as $200 charged for this in less expensive cities and as much as $1500 in more expensive cities.

Low cost of living	Medium cost of living	High cost of living
Memphis (Tennessee), Cincinnati (Ohio)	Miami (Florida), Denver (Colorado), Austin (Texas)	(New York (New York), San Francisco (California)
$200	$900	$1500

However, the price for the service D3425 depends not only on the region where you live, but also varies from dentist to dentist. Therefore, it makes sense to compare prices before choosing a dentist. The best way to do this price comparison is at Dr. BestPrice and save a lot of money. 

Examination and Diagnosis
The first step in an apicoectomy procedure is a thorough examination by a dentist or an endodontist. They will evaluate the tooth, review dental X-rays, and perform tests to determine the need for an apicoectomy. These tests may include percussion (gentle tapping), palpation (pressing on the tooth), and thermal sensitivity tests to assess the tooth's condition and confirm the presence of infection or persistent inflammation.

Local Anesthesia
To ensure the patient's comfort during the procedure, local anesthesia will be administered. The dentist will numb the area surrounding the tooth to be treated, including the gums and nearby tissues. Local anesthesia prevents pain and discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia is typically administered through the use of a dental syringe containing a local anesthetic solution, such as lidocaine or articaine. The dentist carefully injects the solution into the targeted area, temporarily blocking the nerve signals from transmitting pain sensations to the brain. This allows the patient to remain comfortable and relaxed throughout the apicoectomy procedure. It is important to note that the dentist will determine the appropriate dosage and technique for administering local anesthesia based on factors such as the patient's medical history, the complexity of the procedure, and individual pain tolerance.

Accessing the Tooth Root
Once the area is numbed, the dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth. This incision exposes the underlying bone and allows access to the root tip for the subsequent removal. The dentist may also use a dental drill to create a small hole in the bone to facilitate access.

Root Tip Removal
Using specialized instruments, such as an apical curette or an ultrasonic tip, the dentist will carefully remove the infected or damaged portion of the root tip. This process is known as root resection. The dentist will ensure that the entire infected area is thoroughly cleaned and removed. In some cases, a microscope or magnification glasses may be used to enhance visibility and precision during the procedure.

Root-End Preparation
After the root tip is removed, the dentist will shape the remaining root canal to facilitate a proper seal. This may involve cleaning and disinfecting the canal with antimicrobial solutions. The dentist will use small files to shape the canal and create a space for the filling material. This step is crucial to prevent any residual infection and promote optimal healing. Root-end preparation is a meticulous process that aims to ensure a tight and effective seal in the treated tooth. The dentist may use specialized instruments such as ultrasonic tips or microsurgical burs to carefully shape the root canal, removing any remaining infected tissue and creating a clean environment for healing. This step also allows for the removal of any irregularities or obstructions that could impede the proper placement of the filling material. By thoroughly cleaning and shaping the root-end, the dentist enhances the success rate of the procedure and promotes optimal healing of the surrounding tissues.

Filling and Sealing
Once the root canal is prepared, a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, is placed in the canal to seal it and prevent reinfection. Gutta-percha is a rubber-like material that is easily moldable and provides an effective seal. The dentist will use a dental cement to seal the root-end before suturing the gum tissue back in place. This ensures that the root canal is completely sealed and prevents bacteria from re-entering.

Post-Operative Care
After the procedure, the dentist will provide instructions on post-operative care. This may include prescribing pain medications or antibiotics to manage discomfort and prevent infection. Patients should follow all post-operative instructions, including maintaining proper oral hygiene and avoiding certain foods or activities that may disrupt the healing process.

Dental Code D3425 refers to an apicoectomy, a specialized dental procedure performed on the first root of a molar tooth. This procedure is indicated when conventional root canal treatment fails to resolve an infection or complications arise within the root canal system. The steps involved in an apicoectomy include examination and diagnosis, local anesthesia, accessing the tooth root, root tip removal (root resection), root-end preparation, filling and sealing, and post-operative care. The procedure aims to eliminate infection, promote healing, and preserve the natural tooth structure. Patients should consult with their dentist or endodontist to receive personalized information and guidance regarding their specific dental needs.

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