Surgical Root Canal / Apicoectomy
A surgical root canal, also known as an apicoectomy, is a minor dental procedure used when infection or inflammation remains around the tip of a tooth root despite previous root canal treatment. It may also be considered when conventional retreatment is not suitable.
When Is an Apicoectomy Recommended?
An apicoectomy may be recommended for persistent infection, inflammation, a small cyst or lesion near the root tip, or problems that cannot be effectively treated through a conventional root canal. Your dentist or endodontist will assess the tooth using clinical examination and dental imaging before recommending the procedure.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
The area is carefully numbed before the dentist accesses the infected area through the gum. The affected root tip and infected tissue are removed, and the root is sealed to help prevent further infection. The gum is then closed and allowed to heal.