Root Canal Treatment
Endodontic surgery is performed when infection persists at the tip of a root despite root canal treatment, or when the canals cannot be reached from the crown of the tooth. The most common procedure is an apicectomy, where the tip of the root and surrounding infected tissue are removed and the end of the root is sealed.
It is usually considered after root canal retreatment has been explored or ruled out. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, and your dentist will explain the benefits, risks and alternatives beforehand.
Benefits
- Treats infection that RCT alone cannot reach
- May allow you to keep your natural tooth
- Performed under local anaesthetic
- Removes infected tissue at the root tip
- Can relieve persistent symptoms
What to Expect
- Assessment with X-ray or 3D imaging
- Explanation of risks, benefits and alternatives
- Local anaesthetic
- Small incision to access the root tip
- Removal of the infected tissue and sealing of the root end
- Stitches, aftercare instructions and review
Frequently Asked Questions
The area is numbed, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Mild swelling and discomfort afterwards are common and can be managed with the advice given.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions and arrange a review.
Not always. Root canal retreatment is often considered first. Your dentist will discuss whether surgery or extraction is more appropriate for your tooth.
