APICOECTOMY

This procedure is performed when a tooth does not respond to root canal therapy or retreatment. We first make a tiny incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone and surrounding inflamed tissue. We then remove the root end, sterilize the area and seal it to prevent reinfection.

Root canals can be complex, with many tiny branches leading from the main root canal. Sometimes tooth infection can remain in these branches even after root canal treatment, preventing healing or causing reinfection and tooth ache later. In apicoectomy, the root tip is removed along with any infected tissue. A special filling seals the end of the root.

If a root canal has become reinfected, it’s often due to a root tip problem. In many cases, a second root canal treatment is considered before apicoectomy. Thanks to advances in technology, we can detect root canals that were not adequately treated. A second root canal procedure may help us avoid the need for apicoectomy.

Dr. Molina can perform apicoectomy to avoid extraction. Apicoectomy is done only after a root canal procedure and retreatment are unsuccessful or impossible. Apicoectomy is different than a root resection. In a root resection, the entire root is removed, rather than just the tip of the root.