Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy/Root End Surgery)

Typically, a root canal is all that is needed to save a tooth from extraction.  Occasionally, a surgical procedure is also needed to remove residual or relapsed inflammation or infection.  Endodontic surgery can be used to treat the tooth and surrounding bone.  This procedure is commonly called an apicoectomy or root end surgery.

In this procedure, the endodontist makes an incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone and surrounding tissues.  The damaged tissue or infection is removed along the end of the root tip.  A root end filling is placed to prevent reinfection and the gum tissue is closed with sutures.  The hard tissue heals naturally over a period of months.  This procedure does not require removing your crown.

Following this surgical procedure, there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals.  To help alleviate discomfort, appropriate pain medication and post-operative instructions will be recommended.