Apicectomy

An apicectomy is the removal of the apex, or the top of the tooth's root. This minor surgical procedure is typically conducted under a local anaesthetic if infection or cysts persist following root canal therapy or if your dentist is unable to seal the root tip with a standard root filling. An apicectomy cannot eliminate infection without root canal therapy, which must be performed beforehand.

What is required?

Our Endodontic Specialist will anaesthetize the tooth and its surrounding area. A flap of gum is raised, and the root tip, a small portion of surrounding bone, and infected tissue are extracted. The region is cleansed and sanitised. Several millimetres are removed from the root's apex. Occasionally, a small filling is inserted in the root to seal the tip. Using dissolvable stitches, the gum is stitched back into position.

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What should be expected after?

You may desire to have someone accompany you, particularly when leaving our clinic. As discomfort and edoema are to be anticipated for several days, you may be required to take time off work. You will be advised on how to take analgesics, and you may require antibiotics. Please complete the course and pay close attention to the instructions. [Female patients – please be aware that certain antibiotics may interfere with the contraceptive pill's effectiveness. It is recommended to utilise alternative contraceptive methods. As the local anaesthetic fades off, minor bleeding may occur. Use gentle pressure on a clean handkerchief for five minutes by biting gingerly on it. If necessary, this procedure should be repeated. Please contact the hospital if your concerns regarding the haemorrhage persist. The act of smoking can delay the healing process. You should anticipate a small amount of gingival recession around the apricated tooth, particularly if it is a 'cap' or crown, and there may be a faint scar line higher up on your gum.

Risks and Complications

There are risks and complications associated with all surgeries, but a few are unique to this procedure:

- The procedure may fail, particularly if the pre-existing root filling is substandard or if it has fractured/damaged the tooth root.

- You should anticipate minimal gingival recession.

- It may be necessary to repeat the procedure, which can diminish the long-term prognosis for the tooth.

- With upper teeth, the infection can spread to the sinuses and cause additional complications.

- There is a minor risk of injury to the sensory nerves in the lower jaw. This may cause the lower mandible and tongue to become numb or tingly.

Recovery may take several weeks, and in uncommon cases, the numbness may be permanent.