Apicectomy

What Is an Apicectomy?

If you’re experiencing issues with a front tooth that has already undergone root canal treatment, an apicectomy may be the solution to save it.
An apicectomy is a minor surgical procedure to treat infection at the tip of a tooth’s root within the jaw. The procedure involves surgically removing the tip of the root and any infected tissue to try and restore the health of that tooth.

Why Might I Need an Apicectomy?

An apicectomy is recommended when:

• An infection persists or recurs after a root canal treatment.
• The root canal is too complex or inaccessible for retreatment.
• A cyst or abscess has formed at the root tip.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Before your surgery, we will assess your suitability for an apicectomy at a separate consultation appointment. We will assess your medical background and decide whether the procedure is likely to be successful for your specific case.
The surgery usually involves making a small incision into your gum to reflect it back and gain access to the root tip. We will then remove infected tissue and section away 2-3mm of your root tip. The root end is then sealed with a filling material to help prevent further infection. The gum is then usually closed over with stitches that dissolve by themselves over 7-10 days.

Will It Hurt?

The procedure is painless due to the local anaesthetic. You may feel some pressure during the surgery, but there won’t any be discomfort. After the procedure, it’s normal to experience mild swelling or soreness, which can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.

What Are the Benefits of an Apicectomy?

An apicecomy can help prolong the lifespan of your tooth by treating the infection and avoiding extraction. However, there are risks associated with the procedure, and in some cases apicectomy may not be suitable.