About Apicoectomy Surgery
An apicoectomy (also called endodontic surgery) is a minor surgical procedure used to remove the tip of a tooth’s root and surrounding infected tissue when a standard root canal or retreatment alone isn’t enough to heal the tooth.
It’s often recommended when infection or inflammation persists around the root tip despite previous root canal treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it hurt?
No — the area is numbed with local anesthesia so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some mild soreness or swelling afterward is normal and usually goes away in a few days.
What happens during the procedure?
Your endodontist will make a small cut in your gum to reach the root, clean out the infection, and seal the end of the root. Stitches will help your gum heal.
What should I expect after surgery?
You may have some swelling or discomfort, maybe even bruising for a few days. Most people return to normal activities within a week.
What should I avoid after surgery?
Avoid smoking, hard or crunchy foods, and heavy exercise for a few days. Follow the care instructions your doctor gives you.
Are there any risks?
Complications are rare, but like any surgery, there is a small risk of infection or delayed healing. We take steps to keep this risk low.
Will I need a follow-up?
Yes — we’ll schedule a checkup to make sure everything is healing properly and to remove stitches if needed.
Will this fix my tooth for good?
In many cases, yes. An apicoectomy can help a previously treated tooth stay healthy for years.