Apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes the tip of the tooth root (apex), usually due to chronic inflammation at the root tip (granuloma or cyst).
The procedure involves removing the root tip along with the inflammatory tissue, followed by sealing the root canal with special materials designed for this purpose. This can be done during or prior to the surgery.
In some cases, it may be necessary to retreat the tooth with endodontic therapy (cleaning, shaping, and filling the root canal) before the apicoectomy.
Apicoectomy is increasingly performed because it allows patients to save teeth that cannot be treated by standard root canal therapy and would otherwise require extraction.
However, in some cases, even apicoectomy cannot save the tooth. This is often true for multi-rooted teeth or teeth in the lower jaw, especially in the lateral, posterior areas.
Apicoectomy is performed under local anesthesia, making the treatment painless.
The procedure begins by making an incision and lifting the gum tissue to access the tooth root. The tip of the root is removed along with the inflamed tissue.
At the end of the procedure, the gum flap is repositioned and sutured. The procedure lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the tooth and quadrant involved.
After the surgery, antibiotic therapy and antiseptic rinsing are mandatory. Mild swelling is normal, and patients receive written instructions to manage it.
Simply put, apicoectomy is a procedure aimed at saving a tooth that was previously unsuccessfully treated. It is also recommended when root canals are difficult to access or too narrow.
In essence, apicoectomy is a mechanical method of removing inflammation.
After the procedure, mild swelling may occur, which can be relieved by applying ice. Recovery typically takes 3 to 5 days. Antibiotics may be recommended for 7 days following the procedure. It is important to avoid smoking as much as possible.
We also recommend rinsing with chlorhexidine to reduce bacteria in the operated area.
