An apicoectomy is a specialized microsurgical procedure performed when a tooth with previous root canal therapy develops a persistent or recurrent infection. Instead of removing the entire tooth, the tip of the root (called the apex) and the surrounding infected tissue are carefully removed. The area is then disinfected and sealed to prevent the spread of further infection.
At ReGen Endodontics, our board-certified endodontists perform apicoectomies using advanced tools like CBCT imaging, Zeiss operating microscopes, and laser-assisted disinfection systems. This level of precision allows us to save teeth that would otherwise require extraction, ensuring you receive the most effective and comfortable care in a state-of-the-art setting.
If you delay or avoid root-end surgery when it’s recommended, the infection at the tip of your tooth can continue to spread, damaging surrounding bone and tissue. Over time, this may lead to worsening pain, swelling, and ultimately the loss of the tooth. What could have been a simple surgical solution may turn into a more complex and costly problem. By taking action early, you give yourself the best chance to save your natural tooth and protect your oral health.
Your experience begins with a thorough consultation, during which our endodontists perform a comprehensive clinical and radiographic evaluation. Using advanced diagnostic tools like Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), we assess the root structure, bone density, and location of the persistent infection. If root-end surgery is the most appropriate course of action, we explain the findings in detail and walk you through the procedure and expected outcomes.
During root-end surgery, you’ll receive local anesthesia. A small incision is made in the gum tissue to access the root tip of the affected tooth. Using an operating microscope, the inflamed or infected tissue is removed along with approximately 3 mm of the root end. A small retrograde cavity is then prepared at the root tip using ultrasonic instruments and filled with a biocompatible material to seal the canal. The surgical site is then thoroughly irrigated and sutured closed to promote healing.
You may experience minor swelling or soreness for the first few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses. We provide detailed instructions regarding oral hygiene, activity restrictions, and a recommended soft-food diet. The sutures are typically removed in 3-5 days, and we schedule follow-ups to monitor the healing process. While soft tissue heals within 1-2 weeks, full bone regeneration may take 12-18 months.
An apicoectomy is typically recommended when a tooth that has already undergone root canal treatment continues to show signs of infection or inflammation. This may occur due to hidden anatomy, missed canals, or persistent bacteria at the root tip. If traditional retreatment isn’t an option or hasn’t been successful, an apicoectomy offers a way to save your natural tooth.
The procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. The duration depends on the location of the tooth and the complexity of the case. Teeth in the front of the mouth tend to be more accessible, while molars may take slightly longer due to deeper positioning and multiple root tips.
You’ll be given local anesthesia to ensure the area is completely numb, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, mild discomfort and swelling are common but manageable with over-the-counter medication and cold compresses.
You’ll need to stick to soft foods and avoid strenuous activity. Most people return to their normal routine within a week. We’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure everything is progressing as expected.
ReGen Endodontics is committed to helping you restore your oral health with expert surgical care in a compassionate, state-of-the-art environment. Our board-certified endodontists use advanced imaging and microsurgical techniques to save your natural tooth and ensure a stress-free experience. If you’re dealing with a persistent infection after a root canal, schedule your apicoectomy consultation in Morrisville or Garner, NC, today.
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