Surgical Endodontic

Why would I need endodontic surgery?
Generally, root canal treatment is all that is needed to save teeth with injured pulp from extraction. Occasionally, this nonsurgical procedure will not be sufficient for complete healing to occur.  In these instances, endodontic surgery may be recommended. Endodontic surgery is generally reserved to treatment challenges that were not or could not be addressed during nonsurgical treatment.  Damaged root surfaces or the surrounding bone may also be treated with this procedure.  The most common surgery used to save damaged teeth is an apicoectomy or root-end resection.

What is an apicoectomy?
The above diagram illustrates this simple procedure.  An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and surrounding inflamed and/or infected tissue.  The damaged tissue is removed along with a small portion of the root tip.  A root-end filling, or retrofill, is then placed into the root to prevent re-infection. The gum tissue is then sutured back into place.  The bone naturally heals around the root over a period of months restoring full function and health.

Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort or slight swelling while the incision heals.  This is normal for any surgical procedure. We will provide you with detailed post surgical instructions and will be available to assist you as needed.