Apicoectomy Columbia, SC
Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?
Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, this non-surgical procedure will not be sufficient to heal the tooth and your endodontist will recommend surgery. Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays but still manifest pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure. The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.
What is an Apicoectomy?
The video on the right illustrates this simple procedure. An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and surrounding inflamed tissue. The damaged tissue is removed along with the end of the root tip. A root-end filling is placed to prevent reinfection of the root and the gum is sutured. The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months restoring full function.
Are You Looking for Exceptional Endodontic Care?
Palmetto Endodontics can relieve pain and save your natural teeth. Contact us today!

1. Infected Tissue

2. Tissue Removed

3. Suture Placed

4. Healing Complete
Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To alleviate any discomfort, appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our Forest Drive office at Forest Drive office Phone Number (803) 782-7722 or our Summit Centre Drive at Summit Centre Drive office Phone Number (803) 217-0066.
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Palmetto Endodontics
Patient Review
Everyone is so nice, knowledgeable, & professional. Love the cleanliness of the office & the beautiful view out of the large window that helped to calm me. while in the chair. Thanks so much.
- Denise W
Patient Review
Friendly, efficient staff. Dr. Barrett is always top notch - explains procedure well, executes procedure just as he explains, and cares about your comfort in the chair. I’ve been seeing him for years and care is consistent.
- Robin S.
Patient Review
I had a complicated root canal done seven months ago. The procedure was long and excruciating and my face blew up like a balloon afterwards. Several months later, it became obvious my tooth was still infected due to excruciating headaches. I decided to go to a new endodontist and found Dr. McEntire online. I was dreading my appointment but knew I needed to go. Long story short, the day after my procedure I have little to no swelling or pain. I am overjoyed! Dr. McEntire is very skilled, has great communication skills, and best of all, he’s a horseman. Seriously, I highly recommend Palmetto Endodontics and especially for scaredycats like me.
- Melanie L
Patient Review
The staff are very kind. Dr. Barrett is great.
- Traci H
Patient Review
Dr Spitz is the best and I would not go anywhere else for my complex dental needs. 5++ stars
- Wendi G
Patient Review
Dr. Barrett & the entire staff were courteous and professional. He explained the procedure, answered my questions, and considered my preference. I appreciated the after care call! Thanks so much!
- Marilyn L
Patient Review
Dr Spitz is the very best dr! Her care, compassion and professional knowledge out-shine all others in her field!
- Wendi G
Patient Review
Great people and service.
- Susan L
Patient Review
Great office
- Melinda B
Patient Review
Palmetto Endodontics, Dr. Barrett and staff are phenomenal. From making an appointment over the phone, through diagnosis to an outstanding surgical experience, checking out and follow up, they hit it out of the park! Absolutely will return for treatment if indicated in the future. Thank you, Dr. Barrett and Team!
- George B
Patient Review
Dr. Barrett and his staff are absolutely 5 star. Beautiful office and treatment rooms. Dr. Barrett is a consummate surgeon and I had very little post-op discomfort. I was pleasantly surprised by a very nice follow up call the day after my surgery to see how I was doing. Thank you Dr. Barrett and Team!
- George B
Patient Review
It's just overall a great group of people that's doing their job and having a good time doing it and doing it well
- Thomas M
Patient Review
I was very impressed by my experience with my Doctor and the staff! They made me feel very comfortable and were very accommodating with my schedule! I left feeling that I was well taken care of with my procedure! You were the best! Thank you!
- Melinda K
Patient Review
it was a very easy and comfortable experience.
- scott s
Patient Review
Dr. Barrett was perfect! This office is always on time!
- francis p
Patient Review
Dr. McEntire made me feel very comfortable. I have complete confidence in him.
- vicki w
Patient Review
Whatever treatment he recommends do it! He is the wizard!
- penelope
