What is Apicoectomy Surgery & Why It’s Needed
At Liv Endodontics, we believe in preserving your natural teeth whenever possible, and endodontic microsurgery is one of the most advanced tools in our toolbox. Endodontic microsurgery is a precision surgical technique aimed at treating issues that traditional non-surgical endodontic therapy cannot resolve. In many cases, when infection, anatomy, or persistent symptoms linger even after a root canal treatment, this procedure offers a second chance to save the tooth.
What to Expect During & After Apicoectomy Surgery
- Saving teeth that might otherwise be extracted because traditional treatment (including retreatment) did not fully eliminate infection or inflammation.
- Less invasive surgery means faster healing, less discomfort, and better aesthetic and functional outcomes.
- When performed correctly, the success rates of microsurgical endodontic procedures like apicoectomy are considerably higher than older root-end surgeries.
In summary, endodontic microsurgery at Liv Endodontics is not just surgery; it is precision care, combining modern imaging, skilled hands, and patient‐centered planning to preserve natural teeth and avoid more invasive alternatives.
How the Procedure Works at Liv Endodontics
Here’s a step-by-step guide to what patients can expect when undergoing endodontic microsurgery at Liv Endodontics:
Consultation & Detailed Diagnosis
We begin with a thorough exam, including CBCT 3D imaging to map out root anatomy, identify infection or lesions, and locate any fractures or additional canals. These imaging tools enable precise treatment planning and help us decide if microsurgery is the best option.
Treatment Planning
A custom plan is made for your tooth, considering the root structure, surrounding bone, soft tissue, and patient health. We’ll explain options, risks, alternatives, and expected outcomes so you can make informed decisions.
Surgery Under Magnification
Under local anesthesia (and with sedation if needed), our endodontist opens a small flap in the gum to access the root tip and affected bone. Using the dental operating microscope, we remove the infected tissue, resect (cut off) the very end of the root if necessary (an apicoectomy), clean the area, and place a root-end filling (retrofill) with materials designed to seal tightly and promote healing.
Closure & Healing
The flap is sutured back, and the area is allowed to heal. Post-operative care includes instructions to manage discomfort, swelling, and maintain oral hygiene. Over the next few months, the bone regenerates around the root tip.
Frequently asked questions
Is an apicoectomy the same as a root canal?
No. A root canal treats infection from inside the tooth, while an apicoectomy treats infection at the tip of the root—usually when a previous root canal has failed. It’s a microsurgical solution used to preserve your natural tooth.
How do I know if I need an apicoectomy?
If you’ve had a root canal but still experience pain, swelling, or signs of infection, your dentist or endodontist may recommend an apicoectomy. At Liv Endodontics in Livingston and Summit, we use CBCT imaging to confirm if it’s the right treatment.
Is the procedure painful?
Not at all. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, and we offer sedation options for added comfort. Most patients report only mild soreness after surgery.
How long does it take to recover from an apicoectomy?
Most people resume normal activity within 1–2 days. Full healing may take a few weeks. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and monitor your recovery closely.
What is the success rate of an apicoectomy?
Modern apicoectomies have a success rate of over 90% when performed with advanced imaging and microsurgical tools—both standard at Liv Endodontics.
Will I still need a crown after an apicoectomy?
Can an apicoectomy fail?
Like any procedure, there’s a small chance of failure—usually due to complex anatomy or untreated infection. However, our high-tech tools and surgical expertise greatly reduce that risk.
Are apicoectomies covered by dental insurance?
Many insurance plans cover part or all of the cost, especially if the tooth was previously treated with a root canal. We’ll help you confirm your coverage and explain your options.
What if I don’t treat the infection at the root tip?
Delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread to surrounding bone and tissue, possibly leading to tooth loss or more invasive surgery. Early action helps preserve your tooth and avoid complications.
Related Conditions: Root Canal, Cracked Tooth, and Emergency Dentistry
While endodontic microsurgery is a specialized option, many dental issues begin with more common situations. For example:
- Root canal treatment is often the first line of defense when the tooth pulp becomes infected. It involves cleaning, shaping, disinfecting, and sealing the canals inside the tooth. When this process fails or cannot address certain anatomy, that’s when microsurgery may be considered.
- A cracked tooth presents its own set of challenges. Cracks can allow bacteria into inner structures, cause pain, or mimic symptoms of nerve inflammation. Sometimes cracks are not visible in standard imaging. In such cases, endodontic microsurgery may be used to assess root tip involvement, repair the area, or guide prognosis.
- Emergency dentistry: For sudden pain, swelling, or trauma, patients often need quick interventions. Your emergency dentistry appointment may start with pain control and stabilization. If a cracked tooth or a failed root canal is involved, microsurgery could be part of the plan following the emergency phase, once diagnostics allow.
Expert care, close to home
Request your appointment today and experience modern, painless endodontic care.
What our patients are saying
“ Outstanding experience. You can really trust the experts here. The space is clean, the team leads with professionalism and empathy. I felt very well taken care of.”
Patient
Summit
“Though a new patient, I was treated like an old friend. Courtesy, comfort and care for the patient appear to be top priorities here. Every person I saw was extremely nice and likable.”
Patient
Livingston
Root canal therapy
Cracked tooth treatment
Root canal retreatment
Emergency dentistry
Apicoectomy & microsurgery
Lightening discolored teeth