What is an apicoectomy?

What is an apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is also known as root end surgery. This is because it involves the removal of a tooth’s root tip and surrounding tissue. It’s also called apical surgery, which refers to the “apex,” or end, of the tooth.

Can a dentist do an apicoectomy after root canal?

Your dentist can do an apicoectomy to fix the problem so the tooth doesn’t need to be extracte d. An apicoectomy is done only after a tooth has had at least one root canal procedure. In many cases, a second root canal treatment is considered before an apicoectomy.

What are the alternatives to an apicoectomy?

Often, the only alternative to an apicoectomy is removing [ML1] the tooth, which could affect adjacent teeth that are healthy. The purpose is to preserve the function of your natural tooth. WHAT HAPPENS IN AN APICOECTOMY? First, local anesthesia is used to make you comfortable.

What are the risks of an apicoectomy?

Apicoectomy Risks Every dental procedure generally has a risk of complications or failure, but your dental professional will not recommend an apicoectomy unless they believe it has a high chance of success. If the procedure is successful, it should be effective permanently with the life of your tooth.

In an apicoectomy, the root tip, or apex, is removed along with the infected tissue. A filling is then placed to seal the end of the root. An apicoectomy is sometimes called endodontic microsurgery because the procedure is done under an operating microscope.

What are the risks of apicoectomy root end surgery?

Risks of Apicoectomy Root End Surgery. Apicoectomy is not a complicated procedure and it has a high success rate, especially if performed by a qualified experienced dentist or endodontist. There are, however, risks associated with this procedure: The procedure could fail. Nerves can be damaged. The infection can evolve to sinuses.