APICECTOMY

Therefore, a specialized oral and maxillofacial surgeon will expose the root tip within the bone, remove the infection, and seal the root tip.

What is “Apicectomy? An apicoectomy is a surgical intervention designed to remove the tip of the tooth, also known as the apex. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and is considered a minor surgery. The primary goal of an apicoectomy is to eliminate any persistent infection or cyst that remains after a root canal treatment, or in situations where the dentist is unable to seal the root tip effectively using standard root filling techniques. Once the infection has been cleared, the surgeon will seal the root tip, often using a biocompatible material to ensure that the tooth is properly sealed and to prevent future infections. The gum tissue is then sutured back into place, and post-operative care instructions are provided to the patient to facilitate healing and prevent complications.

I have not heard about this procedure!!! Can you elaborate? Certainly! An apicoectomy is a specialized dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that has not responded to traditional root canal treatment. Here's a more detailed explanation: When a tooth becomes decayed, microorganisms penetrate deeper into the tooth, reaching the pulp chamber and eventually traveling through the root canal to the root apex. From the tooth's apex, these microorganisms can migrate through the apical foramen into the bone marrow and other areas, leading to infection. The infection may be symptomatic or asymptomatic, depending on its duration and the presence of microorganisms.

When is an Apicoectomy Needed? Persistent Infection: If an infection continues after a root canal treatment, it may be necessary to remove the root tip to eliminate the infection source. Cyst Formation: Sometimes, a cyst can form at the root tip, requiring surgical removal. Inaccessible Root Tip: If the root tip is not accessible or treatable through standard root canal procedures, an apicoectomy may be the only solution. Root Canal Blockage: When the root canal has calcified or become blocked, preventing standard root canal treatment from reaching the infection. Benefits of an Apicoectomy Tooth Preservation: It allows the preservation of a natural tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. Infection Control: Effectively eliminates persistent infections, preventing them from spreading and causing further complications. Avoiding Complex Procedures: Helps avoid the need for more complex and costly treatments such as dental implants or bridges.