Apicoectomy

What is an Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure that attempts to remove infection from the tip of the tooth root (apex), where nerves and blood vessels enter the tooth.

An apicoectomy, sometimes called endodontic microsurgery because the procedure is performed under an operating microscope, is usually performed only after a tooth has had at least one root canal procedure and usually a second root canal treatment.

Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on X-rays but still manifest pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure. The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy, or root-end resection.


Overall, an apicoectomy is a safe and effective procedure that can help save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. If you are experiencing persistent pain or swelling after a root canal procedure, you may want to speak with your dentist or endodontist to determine if an apicoectomy is the best course of action for your specific case.

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