Save your natural tooth with apicoectomy, a precise microsurgical procedure that removes infection from the root tip when a previous root canal hasn’t fully healed. At ReGen Endodontics, our board-certified endodontists, Dr. Alabbas Hussain and Dr. Sarah Hussain, use state-of-the-art technology to ensure a stress-free experience with faster recovery and minimal discomfort.
Preserve Your Tooth With Precise Microsurgery
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.
Common Reasons for Apicoectomy (Root-End Surgery):
- Persistent infection following a previous root canal
- Hidden or complex root anatomy missed in the initial treatment
- Blocked or inaccessible canals preventing retreatment
- Root fractures or cracks near the tip of the root
- Presence of a cyst or inflammation at the root apex
- Failure of conventional root canal retreatment
- Need to preserve a tooth instead of extracting it
The Consequence of Avoiding Root-End Surgery
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 Apicoectomy (Root-End Surgery) Experience
Consultation
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.
Treatment
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, disinfected using laser-assisted technology, and sutured closed to promote healing.
Recovery
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 5-7 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.
Benefits of Apicoectomy at ReGen Endodontics:
- Performed by board-certified endodontists with advanced surgical training
- Utilization of the Zeiss operating microscope for enhanced precision
- Integration of 3D CBCT imaging for accurate diagnosis and planning
- Use of laser-assisted irrigation to maximize disinfection of the surgical site
- Preservation of natural teeth that might otherwise require extraction
- Minimally invasive technique leading to faster healing and less discomfort
- Direct access to your doctor before and after treatment
Apicoectomy (Root-End Surgery) FAQs
When is Apicoectomy Recommended?
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.
How Long Does an Apicoectomy Take?
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.
Is the Procedure Painful?
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.
What’s the Recovery Process Like?
You’ll likely need a few days of rest, sticking to soft foods and avoiding 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.
Schedule Your Consultation
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.
