Apicoectomy
In most cases, a root canal is enough to save a tooth with damaged or infected pulp. However, in some instances, this non-surgical procedure may not fully resolve the issue. When this happens, Dr. Washington may recommend endodontic surgery to help save the tooth.
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Endodontic surgery is used to:
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• Locate hidden fractures or canals that don’t appear on X-rays but may be causing persistent pain.
• Treat damaged root surfaces or infections in the surrounding bone.
The most common type of endodontic surgery is an apicoectomy (also called root-end resection). This procedure removes the tip of the tooth’s root and any infected tissue to promote healing and prevent further complications.
What is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, is a procedure used to remove infected tissue and the tip of a tooth’s root. During the procedure:
• An incision is made in the gum tissue to access the bone and inflamed area.
• The damaged tissue and root tip are carefully removed.
• A small filling is placed at the end of the root to prevent reinfection.
• The gum is then sutured (stitched), and the bone naturally heals over the following months, restoring full function to the tooth.
What to Expect After an Apicoectomy
After the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort or swelling, which is normal for any surgical treatment. To help manage any discomfort, Dr. Washington will recommend an appropriate pain medication.
If your pain does not improve with medication or worsens, please contact our office for further assistance.
