ENDODONTIC MICROSurgery (Apicoectomy)

Why would I need endodontic surgery?

Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save a tooth with injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, non-surgical root canal therapy may not be sufficient to heal the tooth and your endodontist may recommend endodontic microsurgery, or an apicoectomy. Endodontic microsurgery can be used to locate and confirm fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on x-rays, but still create pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure.

What is an apicoectomy?

During an apicoectomy, your endodontist will take the following steps:

• First, 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 root and the gum is sutured.
• Bone graft material is placed to aid with the healing of the damaged bone. The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months, which restores full function.

The brief video and photos here illustrate this simple procedure.  

What should I expect after AN APICOECTOMY?

Following the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To help manage any discomfort, pain medication and antibiotics may be recommended.

Our staff will review with you in detail what to expect following your procedure, at both your consultation appointment and at the time of treatment. An example of our post-surgery instructions may be viewed on our website. [LINK TO FORM]