Apicoectomies Save Teeth
What is an apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy, also called a “root-end resection”, is a minor surgical procedure used in endodontics to remove the tip (apex) of a tooth’s root, along with any infected or inflamed tissue surrounding it. It’s typically necessary when a tooth that’s already had a root canal continues to have infection or pain at the root tip. Unlike a root canal, which approaches infection through the crown of the tooth, an apicoectomy reaches it surgically through the gum and bone near the root tip.
What can I expect during an apicoectomy?
This painless surgery typically takes about an hour. After the endodontist numbs the area, a small incision is made in the gum near the affected tooth. Then the root is accessed through the bone and the last few millimeters of the root tip is removed along with any infected tissue. The open end of the remaining root is cleaned and sealed with a small filling to prevent future bacteria entry. Then the gum is stitched closed to heal. Healing involves some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days, with full bone healing taking several months. (Click here if you want to see the instructions you will receive following surgery.)
What Happens Before, During, and After Treatment
Before your appointment, we will review your dental and medical history and take high-resolution 3D cone beam images to map the root structure precisely. This allows us to plan your procedure with accuracy that simply was not possible a generation ago.
During treatment, local anesthesia is used to keep you completely comfortable. Our operatories are designed with soft indirect lighting, and every treatment chair includes a massage feature to help you relax. You will never feel rushed.
After your apicoectomy, mild soreness and slight swelling are normal for a few days. We will provide you with clear post-operative instructions and will follow up with a courtesy call the next day to check in on you. Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two.
The Benefits of Apicoectomy
- Tooth preservation: This procedure gives a previously treated tooth a second chance, avoiding extraction and the cost of a replacement.
- Targeted infection removal: It directly eliminates bacteria and infected tissue at the root tip that other treatments cannot reach.
- Minimally invasive: The incision is small, healing is typically fast, and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
- Advanced imaging for precision: Our cone beam 3D imaging gives our endodontist team a complete view of your root structure before a single incision is made.
- Long-term results: When performed by an experienced endodontist, apicoectomy success rates are high, and many treated teeth last a lifetime.
Technology That Makes a Difference
Feature | Benefit | What It Means for You |
Cone Beam 3D Imaging | Detailed pre-surgical mapping | More precise, safer procedures |
Surgical Microscopes | Magnified visualization of the root tip | Greater accuracy, less tissue disruption |
Ultrasonics | Gentle, precise removal of infected tissue | Cleaner results, faster healing |
GentleWave Multisonic UltraClean System | Thorough root system cleaning | Reduced chance of retreatment |
Our Endodontist Team
Dr. Brian T. Wells, DMD and Dr. Ashley B. Millstein bring advanced training, years of clinical experience, and a genuine passion for patient care to every procedure. Dr. Wells founded this practice in 2007 on the belief that endodontic treatment should feel gentle, not frightening. Our team speaks English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, so we can communicate clearly with patients from different backgrounds.
Apicoectomy FAQs
Is an apicoectomy painful?
Most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and managed well with over-the-counter pain relievers. We also follow up personally after your appointment to make sure you are comfortable.
How long does the procedure take?
Most apicoectomy appointments last between 30 and 90 minutes depending on the location and complexity of the tooth involved. Your endodontist will give you a more specific estimate during your consultation.
Do you see same-day emergency patients?
Yes. We offer same-day emergency treatment for patients experiencing acute dental pain or signs of infection. Call our office and we will do our best to see you as quickly as possible.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and CareCredit. Our team can also help verify your insurance benefits before your appointment.
Ready to Protect Your Tooth? Let’s Talk.
If you have been referred for an apicoectomy, or if you are dealing with recurring pain after a previous root canal, do not wait. The team at Wells Endodontics is here to help. We are proud to serve patients throughout the Wesley Chapel area as the leading provider of endodontics that Wesley Chapel families have trusted since 2007.
