Introduction:
An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure done to remove an infection of the tooth’s root and replace it with a dental filling to prevent any further infection.
Root canal therapy is usually the first option for the treatment of an infection of the pulp in the root of a tooth and it is successful in most cases. Apicoectomy is done if root canal has failed or it is not seen as the best option.
Symptoms:
A pulp infection will produce a raised area on the gum that may be painful. See your dentist for an evaluation.
Diagnosis:
Your dentist will be able to determine an infection through examination and xrays.
Treatment:
After numbing the area your dentist will surgically remove the affected tissue and the tip of the tooth’s root. Some of the bone may need to be replaced and a rootend filling will prevent reinfection. Your dentist will use stitches to close the incision.
Your dentist may prescribe a mild pain medication while you recover. The healing process will take several days after which your dentist will remove your stitches.