What to Expect During an Apicoectomy

During a root canal procedure, a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist), removes infected tissue from inside the root of a tooth. Then, he or she tops the tooth with a crown or other type of restoration.^1,2

Usually, a tooth that has had a root canal procedure can last a lifetime without problems. However, some people develop problems in their tooth after the procedure. For example, the tooth may become painful or it may become infected.²

In these cases, a surgical procedure called apicoectomy can help save the tooth.²

Removing Problem Tissue

Your endodontist or general dentist will give you local anesthetics, or painkillers, before an apicoectomy. These numb the area so it won’t hurt.^2,3

During the procedure, the endodontist or dentist opens the gum near the bone. Then he or she may need to remove the swollen or infected tissue. A small piece of the end of the root may be removed as well. He or she may also place a filling in the root to seal the root canal. At the end of the procedure, he or she will close up the gum with a few stitches.²

Healing Takes Time

As your mouth heals after this procedure, you may notice some slight pain or swelling, which is normal. It usually takes a few months for the bone to heal after an apicoectomy.²

¹ “Root Canal Treatment.” American Association of Endodontists. www.aae.org/patients/patientinfo/faqs/rootcanals.htm Accessed 2009.

² “Endodontic Surgery.” American Association of Endodontists. www.aae.org/patients/patientinfo/faqs/endosurgery.htm Accessed 2009.

³ “Your Visit.” American Association of Endodontists. www.aae.org/patients/patientinfo/seeendo/yourvisit.htm Accessed 2009.