Rarely a root canal may not eliminate all the infection with a tooth or around the surrounding bone. Hidden canals within the tooth and cracks not seen on an x- ray or a persistent infection may cause pain to persist. In this case endodontic microsurgery or apicoectomy may be needed.
The gum tissue is opened with a small incision to see underlying bone and to remove the infected tissue. The damaged or infected tissue is removed, the
adjacent root surface is cleaned and disinfected, a root-end filling is placed to prevent reinfection of the root surface, and the gum is sutured. Over the next few months, the bone will continue to heal around the root. Following apicoectomy, most patients resume normal activities. Minor swelling and bruising may occur. Our team will discuss post-operative instructions with you and a follow up appointment will be scheduled to monitor healing at the site.
Your Trusted Endodontist in Summerville, South Carolina