Procedures

Apicoectomy | An Overview of Endodontic Surgery

Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?

Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with an injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, this non-surgical procedure will not be sufficient to cause healing and your endodontist may recommend surgery. Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear clinically or on x-rays but still manifest pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces and the surrounding bone may also be treated. The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.

What is an Apicoectomy?

The above diagram 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 tooth and the gum tissue is sutured. The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months.

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, an appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our office.