A tooth can sometimes remain painful or infected even after root canal treatment. This may happen when bacteria persist near the tip of the root or when a small area could not be fully treated from inside the tooth.
At First Class Smiles, an apicoectomy may be recommended when additional treatment could help resolve the infection and preserve your natural tooth. We carefully evaluate the area before determining whether this procedure is the right next step.
What Is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure used to treat infection near the tip of a tooth’s root. It is sometimes called root-end surgery because the infected tissue and a small portion of the root tip are removed.
The end of the root is then sealed to help prevent bacteria from returning.
Why Might a Tooth Still Hurt After a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment removes infected tissue from inside a tooth, but some problems can persist near the root tip. Narrow canals, unusual root anatomy, small fractures, or bacteria outside the treated canal may contribute to continued symptoms.
A thorough examination can help determine whether the discomfort comes from a persistent infection or another dental problem.
When Is Root-End Surgery Recommended?
An apicoectomy may be considered when a previously treated tooth develops ongoing pain, swelling, or infection. It may also be recommended when repeating the original root canal would be unlikely to resolve the problem.
The goal is to treat the affected area while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.
What Symptoms Could Indicate a Persistent Infection?
Some patients experience few symptoms, while others notice:
- Pain or tenderness around a previously treated tooth.
- Swelling near the gums or jaw.
- A recurring bump on the gum.
- Discomfort when biting or chewing.
- An infection visible on a dental X-ray.
These symptoms do not always mean you need surgery, but they should be evaluated.
What Happens During an Apicoectomy?
The area is numbed before treatment to keep you comfortable. A small opening is made in the gum near the affected tooth so the root tip and infected tissue can be accessed.
After the area is cleaned, the root tip is removed and sealed. The gum is then repositioned and closed so healing can begin.
Will the Procedure Hurt?
Local anesthesia helps prevent discomfort during treatment. You may notice mild soreness, tenderness, or swelling afterward, but these symptoms typically improve as the area heals.
We’ll explain your comfort options and provide detailed instructions for managing your recovery.
What Is Recovery Like?
Most patients can return to many normal activities relatively quickly. Temporary swelling and tenderness are common during the first few days.
You may need to eat softer foods, avoid disturbing the area, and follow specific oral hygiene instructions while the gum tissue heals.
Can an Apicoectomy Save My Tooth?
Root-end surgery is often performed to help preserve a tooth that might otherwise require extraction. Its success depends on factors such as the tooth’s condition, the source of the infection, and the health of the surrounding bone.
We’ll review your findings and explain whether preserving the tooth offers a predictable long-term option.
What Happens If the Infection Is Not Treated?
A persistent infection may continue damaging the bone and tissue around the tooth. Symptoms may temporarily improve and then return, even if the tooth does not hurt all the time.
Without treatment, the tooth may eventually become impossible to save and require extraction.
Why Choose First Class Smiles?
Persistent pain after a root canal can be frustrating and concerning. Our team carefully evaluates the tooth, explains the cause of your symptoms, and reviews every reasonable treatment option.
When an apicoectomy is appropriate, our goal is to resolve the infection while helping you keep your natural tooth.
Find Out If Your Tooth Can Be Saved
If a previously treated tooth remains painful, swollen, or infected, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Request an appointment with First Class Smiles to learn whether an apicoectomy may help preserve your tooth.
