Introduction
When faced with a dental infection or inflammation that persists despite a root canal treatment, an apicoectomy (also known as root-end surgery) can be the final solution to saving your tooth. This surgical procedure allows an experienced endodontist to go beyond the initial root canal to address deep-seated issues in the root tip of the tooth, effectively preventing the need for tooth extraction.
While root canal treatment is typically the first line of defense against tooth infection, it is not always successful in completely eliminating the issue. If the infection or inflammation persists, an apicoectomy is often recommended. This surgery allows for precise removal of the infected tissue, as well as a portion of the root tip, providing a more definitive solution to preserve the tooth.
This article explores the apicoectomy procedure, its benefits, recovery process, and how it differs from traditional root canal treatments. Understanding this technique is crucial for patients facing the possibility of tooth extraction or recurrent infections after root canal treatment.
What is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure performed by an endodontist, the specialist who focuses on the pulp and tissues within the tooth. This surgery is typically used when a standard root canal fails to address an ongoing infection or inflammation. Instead of accessing the tooth from the crown (as in a root canal), the endodontist makes a small incision in the gum tissue to reach the root apex—the very tip of the tooth's root.
The primary goals of an apicoectomy are:
Removing infected tissue around the tip of the root
Resecting a small portion of the root tip (the apex)
Sealing the root canal with a biocompatible material (often Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, or MTA) to prevent further infection