Procedures

Apicoectomy

Although there are many surgical procedures that can be performed to save a tooth, the most common is called apicoectomy or root-end resection. When inflammation or infection persists in the bony area around the end of your tooth after a root canal procedure, your endodontist may have to perform an apicoectomy.

Why do I need endodontic surgery?

Surgery may be used in determining a diagnosis. If you have persistent symptoms but no problems appear on your x-ray, your tooth may have a tiny fracture or canal that could not be detected during non-surgical treatment. In such a case, surgery allows your endodontist to examine the root of your tooth, find the problem, and provide treatment.
Sometimes calcium deposits make a canal too narrow for the cleaning and shaping instruments used in non-surgical root canal treatment to reach the end of the root. If your tooth has this "calcification," your endodontist may perform endodontic surgery to clean and seal the remainder of the canal.
Surgery may also be performed to treat damaged root surfaces or surrounding bone.
Surgery may be needed to treat fractured or perforated teeth.
Surgery may be recommended due to complexity within the root canal system.
Surgery may be recommended due to iatrogenic obstructions within the root canal system.

What are the alternatives to endodontic surgery?

Often, the only alternative to surgery is extraction of the tooth. The extracted tooth must then be replaced with an implant, bridge, or removable partial denture to restore chewing function and to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. Because these alternatives require surgery or prosthetic procedures on adjacent healthy teeth, endodontic surgery is usually the most cost-effective option for maintaining your oral health.

No matter how effective modern tooth replacements are — and they can be very effective — nothing is as good as a natural tooth. You've already made an investment in saving your tooth. The pay-off for choosing endodontic surgery could be a healthy, functioning natural tooth for the rest of your life.

Are there other types of endodontic surgery?

Other surgeries endodontists might perform include dividing a tooth in half (called hemisection), repairing an injured root, or even removing one or more roots. Your endodontist will be happy to discuss the specific type of surgery your tooth requires.

Will the procedure hurt?

Local anesthetics make the procedure essentially painless and very comfortable. Of course, you may feel some discomfort or experience slight swelling while the surgical site heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. Your endodontist will recommend appropriate pain medication to alleviate your discomfort. Your endodontist will give you specific postoperative instructions to follow. If you have questions after your procedure, or if you have pain that does not respond to medication, call your endodontist.

How do I know the surgery will be successful?

Your dentist or endodontist is suggesting endodontic surgery because he or she believes it is the best option for you. Of course, there are no guarantees with any surgical procedure. Your endodontist will discuss your chances for success so that you can make an informed decision.

When can I return to my normal activities?

When can I return to my normal activities?Most patients return to work or other routine activities the next day. Your endodontist will be happy to discuss your expected recovery time with you before and after the procedure.

Can I drive myself home?

Often you can, but you should ask your endodontist before your appointment so that you can make transportation arrangements if necessary.