Apicoectomy
Endodontic Microsurgery
Charlotte Root Canal Center performs apicoectomy (endodontic microsurgery) at 2809 Coltsgate Road, Suite 210, Charlotte, NC 28211. Dr. Rush Sunar, DMD uses a dental operating microscope to remove the tip of a tooth root and surrounding infected tissue when a conventional root canal has not fully resolved an infection. Apicoectomy saves teeth that might otherwise need extraction. Call (704) 375-4252 to schedule an evaluation.
What Is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy — also called a root-end resection — is a surgical endodontic procedure that removes the very tip (apex) of a tooth’s root along with any surrounding infected tissue. After removing the root tip, Dr. Sunar places a small filling to seal the end of the root canal, preventing bacteria from re-entering.
The procedure is performed through the gum tissue rather than through the top of the tooth. This makes it an effective solution when retreating the root canal from the crown of the tooth is not feasible or has already been attempted without success.
When Is an Apicoectomy Needed?
Failed root canal: When a previous root canal treatment has not eliminated the infection at the root tip and retreatment through the crown is not possible.
Persistent infection: An infection that persists despite proper root canal treatment, often due to complex root anatomy, calcified canals, or branching canals that cannot be reached with standard instruments.
Root-end cyst or granuloma: A cyst or lesion at the root tip that has not healed after root canal treatment and requires surgical removal.
Post and crown present: When a tooth has a post and crown that cannot be easily removed for retreatment without risking fracture of the tooth.
The Apicoectomy Procedure
Step 1 — Anesthesia: The area is fully numbed with local anesthesia. You will feel no pain during the procedure.
Step 2 — Access: A small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone and root tip.
Step 3 — Root-end resection: The last few millimeters of the root tip are removed along with any infected tissue or cyst.
Step 4 — Root-end filling: A small biocompatible filling is placed to seal the end of the root canal.
Step 5 — Closure: The gum tissue is sutured back into place. Healing typically takes a few days for soft tissue and several months for complete bone regeneration around the root tip.
Recovery After Apicoectomy
Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for 2 to 3 days after an apicoectomy, manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and ice therapy. Dr. Sunar provides detailed post-operative instructions. Sutures are typically removed within 5 to 7 days. Most patients return to normal activities the day after surgery. Complete bone healing around the surgical site takes 3 to 6 months.
Related Services
Need a first-time root canal? Learn about root canal therapy at Charlotte Root Canal Center.
Dealing with a cracked tooth? Early treatment can save the tooth.
See our financing options for endodontic procedures.
Need an Apicoectomy Evaluation?
Dr. Sunar will evaluate whether apicoectomy is the right solution for your case.
Call (704) 375-4252