2. How long does an apicoectomy take?

The procedure typically takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth’s location and complexity.

3. Can an apicoectomy fail?

While rare, failure can occur if the infection persists. In such cases, further treatment or extraction may be necessary.

4. What is the success rate of an apicoectomy?

The success rate is over 85%, making it a reliable option for saving a tooth.

5. How soon can I return to work?

Most patients resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours, depending on their comfort level.

6. What should I eat after an apicoectomy?

Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups for the first few days to avoid irritation at the surgical site.

7. How do I know if my apicoectomy is healing properly?

Signs of proper healing include reduced swelling, minimal pain, and no signs of persistent infection. If you experience severe pain, pus, or prolonged swelling, contact your dentist.

8. Can I brush my teeth after an apicoectomy?

Yes, but avoid the surgical area for the first few days. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle to prevent irritation.

9. Will I need a follow-up visit?

Yes, your endodontist may schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing and check for any signs of complications.

🦷 Apicoectomy: What It Is, Procedure, Recovery & Benefits

Q: 1. Is an apicoectomy painful?

No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain. Some mild discomfort may occur during recovery.

An apicoectomy is a specialized dental procedure designed to treat persistent infections at the tip of a tooth’s root.

When a standard root canal fails, this minor surgery may be the best way to save your natural tooth 🌱.

Also known as root-end surgery, it’s typically performed by an endodontist who removes the root tip and surrounding infected tissue.

Table of content

❓ What Is an Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing the tip of a tooth’s root along with nearby infected tissue 🛠️.

It’s usually done when a root canal hasn’t worked or when an infection keeps coming back.

🦠 When Is an Apicoectomy Necessary?

Your dentist or endodontist may recommend an apicoectomy if:

🦷 A previous root canal didn’t fully remove the infection
😖 You have persistent pain or swelling near a treated tooth
🧬 The tooth’s root anatomy is complex and hard to clean
🧫 A cyst or infection is found at the root tip
🪓 A crack or fracture appears near the root end

🔄 How an Apicoectomy Differs from a Root Canal

A root canal removes infected tissue inside the tooth 🧪.

An apicoectomy, on the other hand, targets infection at the root tip, especially after a failed root canal.

If the root canal doesn’t work, an apicoectomy is often the final step before extraction ❌.

📝 Apicoectomy Procedure: Step by Step

1. 🧾 Diagnosis and Preparation

X-rays or CBCT scans are used to assess the infection.
Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area.

2. ✂️ Surgical Access to the Root Tip

A small gum incision exposes the infected root.
The root tip and infected tissue are removed.

3. 🧱 Root-End Filling

The area is cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible material (like MTA).
The gum is then sutured back into place.

4. ❤️‍🩹 Healing and Recovery

You’ll receive aftercare instructions for managing pain and swelling.
Stitches dissolve or are removed within 7–10 days.

🤕 What to Expect During Apicoectomy Recovery

Immediate Post-Surgery Effects

Mild swelling and discomfort
Slight bleeding at the site
Tenderness for a few days

🧊 Recovery Tips

Use ice packs to reduce swelling
Take pain medication as prescribed
Eat soft foods for several days
Avoid strenuous activity 🏃
Brush gently near the surgical area

⏳ Full Healing Timeline

1–2 weeks for initial healing
Bone regrowth takes a few months
Final results assessed after 6 months

🌟 Benefits of an Apicoectomy

Saves your natural tooth 🦷
Removes ongoing infection and pain
Minimally invasive with a high success rate ✅
Recovery usually takes less than two weeks

⚠️ Potential Risks and Complications

Though generally safe, an apicoectomy may involve:

Infection after surgery
Rare nerve damage (especially in lower molars)
Swelling or slow healing
Possible need for tooth extraction if it fails

🔁 Alternatives to an Apicoectomy

If an apicoectomy isn’t suitable, your options may include:

Re-doing the root canal treatment 🔄
Extracting the tooth and placing a dental implant 🦷🔩

❓ FAQs About Apicoectomy

1. Is an apicoectomy painful?
Nope! It’s done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel a thing.
Mild discomfort may follow.

2. How long does it take?
Typically 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth.

3. Can it fail?
Rarely. But if infection returns, extraction may be necessary.

4. What’s the success rate?
Over 85% — it’s a reliable solution for saving teeth! 🟢

5. When can I go back to work?
Most patients resume normal activities in 24–48 hours.

6. What can I eat after surgery?
Stick to soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, and soups 🥣.

7. How do I know it’s healing right?
Reduced pain, swelling, and no signs of infection = ✅

8. Can I brush my teeth?
Yes, just be gentle near the surgical area and use a soft toothbrush 🪥.

9. Do I need a follow-up visit?
Yes. Your endodontist will check on healing and ensure success.

✅ Conclusion

An apicoectomy is a powerful, conservative option for saving teeth when root canals fall short.

With proper care, you can expect a smooth recovery and long-term relief.

If you’re dealing with persistent tooth pain or signs of infection in a previously treated tooth, consult an endodontist to explore whether apicoectomy is the right next step 🩺🦷.

References

The Saudi Dental Journal, 23(1), 9. (2010). Apical surgery: A review of current techniques and outcome. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sdentj.2010.10.004
Thakur, Vivek; Kaul, Rahul¹. Apicoectomy: A review of clinical concepts and techniques. Journal of Oral Research and Review 17(1):p 77-82, Jan–Jun 2025. | DOI: 10.4103/jorr.jorr_14_24
Gulsever, S., Ersahan, S., Hepsenoglu, Y. E., & Tekin, A. (2025). Apicoectomy versus apical curettage in combination with or without L-PRF application: A randomized clinical trial. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-92787-y