Apicectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tip of the root of a root canal of a treated (or non-vital) tooth and then sealed with a filling.

Indications for Root Canal Surgery

• Persistent symptoms not responding to previous non-surgical treatment
• Previous root canal surgery which has not resolved the problem
• Calcified root canals
• Extraradicular or actinomycosis infection
• Foreign body reaction

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What to expect during root canal surgery

• You may require a 2D or 3D X-ray for an assessment to see the shape of the root canals and look for signs of infection in the surrounding gum and bone
• An incision is made at the gum to get access to the root canal and any infection, pus or inflamed tissue will be removed
• Ultrasonic and surgical instruments will be used to create a space at the root canal and sealed with a filling to close the canal
• There may be a few sutures placed at your gum after surgery

Post Treatment Care

• Avoid drinking or eating for the first 2-3 hours after the treatment because your tooth and lips may be still numbed from the anaesthesia
• You may feel some mild discomfort or tingling sensitive feeling for the first few days.  Do take the pain killers medication prescribed by your dentist
• There may be slight swelling and bruising for the first few days.  You may apply cold ice pack on the day of surgery and subsequently, you may apply warm pack for the swelling.
• Avoid chewing on the side of the treated tooth.  It is best to take soft diet for the first few days.
• Avoid touching your gums with your finger or toothbrush
• Avoid exercise on the day of surgery. 
• You should be able to return to work and other activities the next day
• Practise good teeth hygiene by using Chlorhexidine mouth wash

See your dentist if your pain suddenly gets worse, if the temporary crown or filling comes off or if there is swelling inside or around your mouth or you develop a sudden fever

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