Apicoectomy
A precise microsurgical procedure used to treat persistent infection and help save a tooth when conventional root canal treatment isn’t enough.
Specialized care to help save your tooth
When Root Canal Treatment Isn’t Enough
Most root canal treatments are highly effective, but sometimes infection can persist around the tip of the tooth’s root.
An apicoectomy allows our endodontists to access the affected area directly, remove the root tip and infected tissue, and seal the end of the canal to help preserve the natural tooth.
Treat Infection
Remove infection around the root tip.
Save Your Tooth
Preserve the natural tooth whenever possible.
Target the Source
Treat the affected area directly.
Support Healing
Help surrounding tissues recover.
The Right Treatment Starts With the Right Diagnosis
Persistent pain or infection after root canal treatment doesn’t always mean the tooth needs to be removed.
Our specialists carefully evaluate the tooth and surrounding tissues to determine the source of the problem and whether an apicoectomy is the appropriate next step.
Advanced imaging helps us plan treatment with greater precision before the procedure begins.
Clear answers before treatment
Your Apicoectomy, Step by Step
Evaluation & Planning
We evaluate the tooth and surrounding area before treatment.
Access the Root
A small opening is made to reach the affected root tip.
Remove the Infection
Infected tissue and the root tip are carefully removed.
Seal & Heal
The root end is sealed to support healing and protect the tooth.
Advanced Technology. Better Treatment Experience.
The GentleWave® System cleans and disinfects the root canal more thoroughly, helping preserve healthy tooth structure for predictable results.
Advanced Technology. Better Treatment Experience.
Small field high resolution 3D imaging helps our specialists see fine details for more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask a Question
What is an apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes the tip of a tooth’s root and surrounding infected tissue to help eliminate persistent infection and save the natural tooth.
Why would I need an apicoectomy?
Treatment is generally required because pain, due to infection, is already present. The procedure will alleviate that pain and should not be a painful process. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after two-to-three hours. Please note that it is possible to have some discomfort for two-to-three days after the procedure. This can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
Is an apicoectomy painful?
Treatment is generally required because pain, due to infection, is already present. The procedure will alleviate that pain and should not be a painful process. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after two-to-three hours. Please note that it is possible to have some discomfort for two-to-three days after the procedure. This can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
How is an apicoectomy different from root canal retreatment?
Treatment is generally required because pain, due to infection, is already present. The procedure will alleviate that pain and should not be a painful process. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after two-to-three hours. Please note that it is possible to have some discomfort for two-to-three days after the procedure. This can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
How long does an apicoectomy take?
Treatment is generally required because pain, due to infection, is already present. The procedure will alleviate that pain and should not be a painful process. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after two-to-three hours. Please note that it is possible to have some discomfort for two-to-three days after the procedure. This can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Treatment is generally required because pain, due to infection, is already present. The procedure will alleviate that pain and should not be a painful process. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after two-to-three hours. Please note that it is possible to have some discomfort for two-to-three days after the procedure. This can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
How long does it take to heal?
Treatment is generally required because pain, due to infection, is already present. The procedure will alleviate that pain and should not be a painful process. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after two-to-three hours. Please note that it is possible to have some discomfort for two-to-three days after the procedure. This can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
Can an apicoectomy save my tooth?
Treatment is generally required because pain, due to infection, is already present. The procedure will alleviate that pain and should not be a painful process. Local anesthesia is applied to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after two-to-three hours. Please note that it is possible to have some discomfort for two-to-three days after the procedure. This can be treated with over-the-counter medication.
Protect Your
Natural Smile
Whether referred by your dentist or searching on your own, we’re here to provide expert diagnosis and compassionate care.