Why would I need Endodontic Surgery?

Sometimes, infection associated with the tooth fails to resolve even though the non-surgical endodontic procedure was completed. Mostly it happens when the body’s natural defenses are not enough to heal the diseased tissue around the root of the tooth. In a rare case like this, it becomes necessary to remove the infected and inflamed tissue around the tooth through the endodontic surgery called an apicoectomy.

Apicoectomy is a Latin term which means the removal of the tip. During apicoectomy a small portion of gum tissue is temporarily lifted, and the diseased tissues, mostly at the tip of the root, are exposed. Such tissues are removed along with the tip of the root, which is immersed in that tissue. Hence, the name apicoectomy. In most cases, a small filling is placed at the root tip, and the gum is sutured back in place.

The post-operative period is unlikely to bring discomfort or swelling. Your endodontist will discuss what to expect in your particular case.

We use non-resorbable sutures that need to be removed a few days after the procedure. Resorbable sutures dissolve by an inflammatory process, and it is our approach to minimize unnecessary inflammation.

Your endodontist must be aware of any blood thinners, aspirin, non-steroidal antiinflammatories, or Vitamin E that you may be regularly taking.

Please plan to rest for the remainder of the surgical day. Do not plan any trips for two weeks after the surgery.

All surgical procedures in our office have to be preceded by a consultation appointment. Apicoectomy cannot be performed on a tooth that has an acute abscess.