Apicoectomy (An overview of endodontic surgery)

Why would I need Endodontic Surgery? Generally, a root canal is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, this non-surgical procedure will not be sufficient to induce healing, and surgical therapy may be indicated. Endodontic surgery can be used to locate fractures or hidden canals that do not appear on radiographs but still manifest pain in the tooth. Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure; as well as removal of infected tissue and pathological lesions. The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.

What is an apicoectomy?

The above diagrams illustrate this procedure. An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and surrounding inflamed tissue. The damaged tissue is removed along with the end of the root tip. A root-end filling is placed to prevent reinfection of the root and the gum is sutured. The root end filling material employed by Dr. Weinstock is Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA). MTA has shown to be extremely biocompatible while providing a superior apical seal. The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months restoring full function.

Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure. To alleviate any discomfort, an appropriate pain medication will be recommended. If you have pain that does not respond to medication, please call our office.