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 being extracted. Occasionally the root canal will not be sufficient to heal the tooth and your dentist may recommend surgery. Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals which did not appear on x-rays, but still manifest pain in the tooth and jaw. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure. 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 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 seal the canal (retrofill) and the gum is sutured. The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months, restoring full function. Occasionally bone graft material is placed if the bone defect is large.

Following the procedure there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To alieve discomfort, an appropriate pain medication will be recommended.