When a tooth with a previous root canal treatment is not healing or has failed, sometimes a surgical approach is the best solution to save the tooth. Apicoectomy is the surgical removal of the last few millimeters of an infected root and clearing the affected bone of chronically inflammed tissue.
The procedure is done using local anesthesia. There is an incision made in the tissue and access to the end of the root is made for surgery. Sutures are used at completion of surgery to hold the incision together for healing.
Post surgery, most patients have a few days of discomfort controlled with medication. Swelling is expected for the first 24-48 hours. The doctor will see you a week after surgery to assess tissue healing and remove the sutures.
An apicoectomy, also called root-end surgery, is a surgical procedure that removes the infected tip of a tooth's root and seals the end of the canal. It treats infection that remains after a root canal and allows you to keep your natural tooth.
An apicoectomy is typically recommended when infection persists after a root canal or retreatment, when canals are curved or blocked, when a root tip is fractured, or when a crown or post makes retreatment impractical. A 3D CBCT scan helps determine the best option.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during surgery. Afterward, mild discomfort and swelling are common for a few days and are usually controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Soft tissue heals over about one to two weeks, while the bone around the root tip continues healing over several months. Naples Endodontics schedules follow-up visits to confirm healing.
Apicoectomy has a high success rate. Studies of modern endodontic microsurgery commonly report success rates around 90 percent, making it a reliable way to save a tooth that would otherwise need extraction.
Apply ice to reduce swelling, eat soft foods, avoid chewing on the treated side, and do not smoke. Brush gently around the area and follow the specific aftercare instructions from Dr. Talbott or Dr. Shwedel. Call (239) 593-8844 if swelling or pain increases after a few days.
