Apicoectomy

Apicoectomy is an endodontic surgical procedure in which the root tip of a tooth is removed and a root-end cavity is prepared and filled with a biopolymer. It is also known as retrograde root canal treatment or root-end filling.

Sometimes the infection persists even after root canal therapy. In these cases, an apicoectomy, or root end resection can be performed to remove diseased tissue.

1. An incision is made to allow access to the base of the tooth. The inflamed or infected pulp is treated and the canals are carefully cleaned and shaped.
2. A small filling may be placed in the remaining tip of the tooth to seal the root canal. The gum tissue is stitched back into place.
3. A crown is placed to protect the tooth.