What Is an Apicoectomy and Why Would I Need This Procedure?
Posted on 10/1/2025 by Jerome Riddle DDS Office
Have you ever felt a throbbing pain in your tooth that just won't go away? This could be a sign of an infection deep inside the root of your tooth. If antibiotics haven't helped and the infection persists, an apicoectomy might be the solution you need.
What is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy, also known as an apico, is a surgical procedure used to remove the infected tip of your tooth's root along with any surrounding infected tissue. The tip of the root is the furthest point from the crown and is called the apex. During the procedure, a small incision is made in your gum, allowing access to the bone surrounding the root tip. The infected tip and any infected tissue are carefully removed, and the root canal filling is extended further into the root to prevent reinfection. The end of the root may be filled in with a bone graft, and then the incision is closed with sutures.
Why Would I Need an Apicoectomy?
There are several reasons why your dentist might recommend an apicoectomy:
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Persistent infection: If the infection in your tooth hasn't cleared up with other treatments like root canals and medication, an apicoectomy can help remove the remaining infected tissue.
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Recurrent infection: Sometimes, an infection can recur after a root canal treatment. In such cases, an apicoectomy can prevent the need for repeated root canals or even tooth extraction.
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Cyst formation: In severe cases, the infection can spread beyond the tooth's root and create a cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac in the surrounding bone. An apicoectomy removes the cyst and allows the bone to heal.
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Fracture or root resorption: A root fracture or internal resorption (body breaking down its own tissue) of a vital (living) tooth can lead to an infection that can be treated with an apicoectomy.
What to Expect After an Apicoectomy
After your apicoectomy, your dentist will give you specific post-operative instructions to follow to promote healing and minimize discomfort. You might experience some swelling and tenderness, which can be controlled with over-the-counter medication. Your doctor might prescribe antibiotics to prevent further infection and recommend a soft diet for a few days. Most patients recover fully within a week.
Is an Apicoectomy the Right Choice for Me?
The decision to undergo an apicoectomy depends on several factors, including your overall health, the type and severity of your infection, and the condition of your surrounding bone. Your dentist will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you and help you decide if it's the best option for you.
An apicoectomy is a safe and effective treatment for persistent tooth infections, preventing the need for tooth extraction and restoring oral health. If you're facing this challenge, talk to your dentist and see if it's the right option for you.
Have you ever felt a throbbing pain in your tooth that just won't go away? This could be a sign of an infection deep inside the root of your tooth. If antibiotics haven't helped and the infection persists, an apicoectomy might be the solution you need.