Endodontic Surgery (Apicoectomy / Root Canal Microsurgery)

Sometimes, even after a root canal, infection or inflammation can persist near the tip of a tooth’s root. That doesn’t mean the tooth is lost. Endodontic surgery—also called apical surgery, apicoectomy, or root canal microsurgery—is a specialised procedure designed to remove infection at the root tip and preserve your natural tooth.

When Is Endodontic Surgery Needed?

At The Endodontic Office, we recommend this procedure if:

• Infection or swelling continues after a root canal
• Retreatment isn’t possible due to posts, crowns, or complex anatomy
• A cyst or calcified canal forms at the root tip
• Persistent pain or hidden fractures are present

This surgery is often the last opportunity to save a tooth before extraction.

How the Procedure Works

1. Anaesthesia – The area is numbed for a comfortable experience.
2. Access – A small incision is made in the gum to reach the root tip.
3. Infection Removal – Infected tissue and the root tip are carefully removed.
4. Root-End Filling – A tiny filling seals the root to prevent reinfection.
5. Closure & Healing – The gum is sutured, and bone naturally regenerates around the tooth over time.

The procedure usually takes 60–90 minutes and is performed under a surgical microscope for maximum precision.

Benefits of Endodontic Surgery

• Preserves your natural tooth – avoids extraction and implants
• High success rate – with advanced microsurgical techniques
• Minimal downtime – most patients return to normal activities in 2–3 days
• Targeted care – designed for stubborn infections that other treatments can’t resolve

Recovery & Aftercare

• First 24 hours – Avoid rinsing, smoking, or touching the site. Use cold compresses for swelling.
• Diet – Stick to soft foods (yoghurt, soup, eggs, smoothies) for 2–3 days.
• Oral hygiene – Use antiseptic mouthwash as prescribed; avoid brushing directly over the site for 3 days.
• Medications – Take painkillers and antibiotics as directed.
• Follow-up – Sutures are usually removed in 5–7 days, and healing is monitored closely.

Most patients feel normal in 7–10 days, though bone healing continues for a few months.

Risks (Rare but Possible)

• Temporary numbness in lower jaw surgeries (nerve proximity)
• Sinus complications in upper back teeth (managed with medications)
• Post-op swelling or tenderness

Our team takes every precaution to minimise risks and ensure safe healing.

FAQs

Q: How is this different from a root canal?
A root canal treats infection inside the tooth, while endodontic surgery treats infection at the root tip from the outside.

Q: Is the procedure painful?
No. It’s done under local anaesthesia, and discomfort after surgery is usually mild and manageable.

Q: How successful is it?
Success rates are above 85–90%, especially when performed with microsurgical techniques.

Q: Will I need further treatment?
Often no, unless your existing crown or filling is compromised.

Still Have Questions?

If you’re still experiencing discomfort after a root canal, don’t give up on your tooth. Endodontic surgery at The Endodontic Office offers a safe, effective way to save it.
Call us or book your consultation today.