Understanding Apicoectomy: Saving Your Natural Tooth

Most people know about root canals as a way to save teeth that are badly infected or damaged. But what happens if a root canal isn’t enough to stop the infection or heal the tooth? That’s when a procedure called an apicoectomy may be recommended.

What Is an Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy, sometimes called endodontic surgery, is a minor surgical procedure performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist). It focuses on the tip of the tooth’s root, which is called the “apex.”

During the procedure, the dentist removes:

• The infected root tip
• Any surrounding infected tissue
• And then seals the end of the root to prevent further infection

This allows the tooth to heal and function normally without the infection returning.

When Is an Apicoectomy Needed?

An apicoectomy is usually recommended when:

• A root canal treatment didn’t fully remove the infection
• There’s a hidden or hard-to-reach canal that wasn’t cleaned during root canal therapy
• Infection or inflammation persists at the tip of the root
• A small fracture is present near the root tip

Instead of extracting the tooth, this procedure gives it another chance to be saved.

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Local Anesthesia – The area is numbed to ensure comfort.
2. Small Incision – A tiny opening is made in the gum to access the root tip.
3. Root Tip Removal – The infected root tip and tissue are carefully removed.
4. Sealing – The end of the root canal is sealed to prevent reinfection.
5. Healing – The gum is stitched, and the body begins healing naturally.

Most apicoectomies take about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth and complexity.

Recovery and Aftercare

After an apicoectomy, mild swelling or discomfort is common for a few days. Your dentist may recommend:

• Over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief
• Ice packs to reduce swelling
• Soft foods for a few days
• Careful brushing around the area

Healing usually takes a few weeks, and most patients return to normal activities within a day or two.

Benefits of Apicoectomy

• Saves your natural tooth instead of extraction
• Stops infection from spreading to other teeth or gums
• Restores function so you can chew, smile, and speak comfortably
• Long-term results when paired with good oral hygiene

Final Thoughts

An apicoectomy may sound intimidating, but it’s a safe and effective way to preserve a tooth that might otherwise be lost. By removing the infected root tip and sealing the area, this procedure helps protect your smile and maintain your oral health.

📞 If you’ve had a root canal but still experience pain or infection, schedule a consultation today to see if an apicoectomy is the right solution for you.