Apicoectomy
Precise surgical treatment to save your tooth when conventional root canal therapy isn't sufficient.
When Might You Need an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy may be recommended when conventional root canal treatment hasn't fully resolved the problem or isn't possible due to anatomical factors.
- Persistent infection after root canal treatment
- Cyst or abscess at the root tip
- Blocked or calcified root canals
- Fractured root tip
- Post or crown preventing retreatment
The Apicoectomy Procedure: What to Expect
- 1
Consultation & Imaging:
Dr. Anderson will examine your tooth and take detailed X-rays or 3D imaging to plan the precise surgical approach.
- 2
Local Anesthesia:
The area around your tooth is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure you're completely comfortable during the procedure.
- 3
Accessing the Root:
A small incision is made in the gum tissue to access the root tip and surrounding bone.
- 4
Root Tip Removal:
The infected root tip and any diseased tissue are carefully removed using specialized microsurgical instruments.
- 5
Root End Filling:
The end of the root is cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible filling material to prevent future infection.
- 6
Closure & Healing:
The gum tissue is sutured closed, and the healing process begins. Follow-up appointments monitor your recovery.
Precision Treatment
Using advanced microsurgical techniques and 3D imaging, we can precisely target the problem area while preserving healthy tissue. This minimally invasive approach promotes faster healing and better outcomes.
Save Your Natural Tooth
An apicoectomy can often save a tooth that would otherwise need extraction. Preserving your natural tooth maintains proper chewing function and avoids the need for more complex replacement procedures.
Related Endodontic Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy, also called root‑end surgery, is a small procedure that removes the very tip of a tooth’s root and the surrounding inflamed or infected tissue. It’s usually recommended when a tooth has already had a root canal but symptoms persist because the infection is trapped at the root end or the anatomy makes retreatment difficult. The goal is to save your natural tooth by sealing the root from the outside and allowing the area to heal.
How is an apicoectomy different from a root canal?
A root canal treats infection from inside the tooth by cleaning and sealing the canals. An apicoectomy approaches the problem from the outside, through the gum and bone, to remove infection at the root tip. This is helpful when a previous root canal can’t be effectively redone, or when there is a hidden canal, blockage, or persistent lesion. In many cases, apicoectomy is the final step to resolve infection and keep the tooth functional long‑term.
Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is done with local anesthesia, and we make sure you are completely numb before we begin. Most patients feel pressure but not pain during surgery. Afterward, it’s normal to have mild soreness or swelling for a few days. This is typically well controlled with over‑the‑counter pain relievers or medications we recommend. We’ll provide clear post‑operative instructions so you know what to expect and when to call us.
How long is the recovery time?
Most people return to normal activities within 2–3 days, although you may want to take it easy the first 24 hours. Swelling and tenderness usually peak around day two and then improve. The gum tissue generally heals over 1–2 weeks, while the bone around the root tip heals more gradually over a few months. We’ll check your progress at follow‑up visits and coordinate with your general dentist for any needed restorations.
What is the success rate?
Apicoectomy success rates are high—often in the 85–95% range—especially when performed with modern microsurgical techniques. Success depends on factors like the size of the infection, the tooth’s anatomy, and the quality of the existing root canal and restoration. Our goal is long‑term healing and comfort, so we evaluate the tooth carefully before recommending surgery. When successful, apicoectomy can prevent extraction and preserve your natural bite.
Need Expert Endodontic Surgery?
Dr. Anderson's expertise in microsurgical techniques can help save your tooth. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options.
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