Apicoectomy
An apicoectomy, also known as root-end surgery, is a minor oral surgical procedure used to remove an infection at the root tip of a tooth.
It is often recommended when a standard root canal treatment has not fully cleared the infection.
The goal of the procedure is to save the natural tooth by removing the inflamed tissue and sealing the end of the root to prevent further bacterial contamination.
Overview And Clinical Background
When Root Canal Alone Isn’t Enough
An apicoectomy is performed when infection or inflammation persists after a root canal.
It helps eliminate bacteria and inflamed tissue from the root tip and the surrounding bone while maintaining the tooth structure.
- Purpose: To remove the infected portion of the root and prevent reinfection, saving the natural tooth from extraction.
- Usually performed under local anesthesia with minimal discomfort and a quick recovery period.
- Alternative to extraction: Offers a conservative solution to preserve the tooth’s function and aesthetics.
Symptoms, Signs And Presentation
Persistent tooth pain or swelling near a previously treated root canal may indicate the need for an apicoectomy.
Patients may also notice tenderness while biting or gum swelling.
- Common symptom: Pain or pressure near the affected tooth even after root canal therapy.
- Swelling or gum irritation localized around one tooth.
- Red flag: Persistent pus drainage or visible swelling that does not subside with antibiotics.
Diagnosis Methods And Investigations
Imaging And Diagnostic Evaluation
The dentist performs a detailed clinical examination supported by imaging to assess the tooth’s condition.
This helps confirm persistent infection and identify structural issues.
- Imaging: Dental X-rays or CBCT scans reveal the extent of infection and bone loss around the root tip.
- Clinical tests: Percussion and palpation tests help detect localized tenderness and root-end inflammation.
- Sometimes dye tracing or microscopic evaluation identifies microfractures causing reinfection.
Treatment Options And Surgical Techniques
The procedure involves numbing the area, making a small incision in the gum, and removing the infected root tip.
The end of the root canal is then cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent future infection.
- Conservative: Root canal retreatment may be attempted first if the infection is mild.
- Minimally invasive: Microsurgical apicoectomy uses magnification and precision instruments for better accuracy and faster healing.
- Advanced bone grafting may be done if infection has caused bone loss near the root tip.
Recovery, Risks And Prognosis
Recovery typically takes a few days.
Mild swelling or discomfort is normal and can be managed with cold compresses and pain relief.
Prognosis is excellent when performed by an experienced endodontist, with long-term success in preserving natural teeth.
Why Choose Us
CureU Healthcare offers expert dental surgeons trained in microsurgical techniques.
Our precision imaging, modern tools, and gentle care ensure a comfortable experience and durable results.
Conclusion
An apicoectomy can often save a tooth that would otherwise need extraction.
At CureU Healthcare, patients receive advanced endodontic care focused on comfort, precision, and lasting oral health.
