Apicoectomy (Endodontic Surgery) in Rochester, MN

Most of the time, a root canal can restore the health of your tooth and get rid of any accompanying pain. But there are instances where a root canal is just not enough. Whether the tooth was not fully disinfected or you have hidden canals deep inside that bacteria hides, an apicoectomy can help attack the deepest infections to help save your tooth from extraction.

What is an Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy, also known as root-end surgery, is an endodontic procedure that takes place at the roots rather than the crown of the tooth, restoring your tooth from the bottom up. An apicoectomy treats infection or abscess by removing the tip of a tooth’s root where bacteria can hide in the tiny canals. This microsurgical procedure also eliminates the need for a new crown so that you can maintain the look and feel of your natural tooth. Not sure if you need a root canal or Apicoectomy? Learn more here!

Reasons you may need an Apicoectomy

• A root canal is not enough to heal the tooth
• Keep an existing crown intact
• Avoid an extraction
• Risks of a re-treatment outweigh the benefits if your tooth lacks structural integrity

What is the process for an Apicoectomy?

Using a high-powered operating microscope, your endodontist first creates an opening in the gum tissue near the infected tooth. Next, any inflamed or infected tissue is removed, along with a small portion of the bone, to gain access to the tooth’s roots. Then the infected tip of the tooth’s root is trimmed. Special ultrasonic instruments are used to create a space in the end of the root, and a small filling is added to seal the root’s canal. Finally, a few sutures are placed to help the soft tissue heal quickly. The bone tissue will gradually heal around the tooth’s root in a matter of months.