Apicoectomy

Apicoectomy (root end surgery) is a surgical procedure to remove infected soft tissue from around the root of the tooth, also referred to as the apex. It aims to preserve the function of the tooth and prevent dental extraction. This procedure is most often performed when a root canal treatment has failed or did not completely eliminate the infection. It involves removing the tip of the dental root and cleaning the infected site. Any cysts will also be removed.

When tooth roots are extremely complex and contain several branches, inflammation may persist. When root morphology is intricate, they cannot be properly cleaned and sealed during root canal treatments. Also, debris from fractured dental files left behind during prior endodontic treatments may interfere with the cleaning of the root canal. Finally, when the canal is misshapen, the files used in canal treatments can’t always reach the root of the tooth, causing the infection to recur or persist.

Antibiotics or anti-inflammatories are usually prescribed prior to the surgery to treat the infection. This procedure does not require a stay at the clinic.

Apicoectomy is used in the following cases:

• Failed root canal treatment
• Unusual root shape
• Root canal hard to clean
• Cysts
• Fractured or cracked tooth

Let us know right away if you experience pain or swelling around any of your teeth, especially if you recently underwent a root canal treatment.