Apicoectomy: Saving Your Tooth When a Root Canal Treatment Isn’t Enough
If you've had a root canal treatment but are still experiencing discomfort, swelling, or signs of infection, your dentist may suggest a procedure called an apicoectomy.
While the term may sound unfamiliar, it’s a safe and minor oral surgery that can help save your natural tooth when other treatments haven’t fully worked
What Is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy (also called root-end surgery) is a dental microsurgery where the tip of a tooth’s root is removed, along with any infected tissue surrounding it. The area is then cleaned, sealed, and closed with sutures to allow healing.
It is usually performed when:
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A previous root canal treatment has failed.
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An infected root canal treated tooth has a large coronal restoration and retreatment is not possible.
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Retreatment with another root canal is not possible nor likely to succeed.
Instead of removing the entire tooth, an apicoectomy allows your dentist or endodontist to treat the root directly and preserve the natural tooth.
Step-by-Step: How the Procedure Works
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Diagnosis and imaging
Before the procedure, your dentist or specialist will request a 3D scan or CBCT to clearly view the root tip and surrounding area of the tooth. -
Anesthesia
The area is numbed with a local anesthetic, just like during a filling or root canal. Sedation may be available if you're anxious. -
Gum incision
A small cut is made in the gum near the affected tooth to expose the root tip and infected tissue. -
Removal of root tip and infection
The apex (root tip) is removed, and surrounding inflamed or infected tissue is carefully cleaned out. -
Root-end filling
A biocompatible material (such as MTA) is placed to seal the end of the root and prevent future infection. -
Closure and healing
The gum is stitched closed with sutures. These may dissolve on their own or be removed at a follow-up appointment.
Trust Your Smile to Expert Hands
At A. DENT, we understand how important it is to keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.
Whether you're experiencing symptoms after a root canal or were referred for a surgical consultation, we're here to guide you through every step.