Apicoectomy
Following the procedure, discomfort or slight swelling may occur while the incision heals. This discomfort and swelling is normal for any surgical procedure. We will recommend managing any discomfort with appropriate pain medication. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our office.
What is an Apicoectomy?
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. The root canal can then be cleaned from this “back door” approach. 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.
Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?
Generally, a root canal is the only endodontic treatment 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 locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on X-rays but still manifest pain in the tooth. This procedure may also treat damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone. An apicoectomy or root-end resection is the most common surgery to save damaged teeth.