Endodontic microsurgery (apectomy)
What is an apectomy?
Following a consultation including 3D imaging, the endodontist may recommend apical microsurgery if your tooth is showing inadequate healing or a new infection.
During the procedure, the endodontist will use micro-instruments to remove the infection and the problematic root tip to gain access to your old root canal. He will then remove the obturating material present in the root tip and proceed to place a retrograde obturation to adequately seal the root canal system of the problem tooth.
Indications for treatment
Apectomy is generally recommended when the endodontist determines that:
- Initial treatment was adequate, but still failed.
- The cost of root canal retreatment is prohibitive, as a new post and/or crown would be required afterwards.
- The morphology of the tooth presents such difficulties that the endodontist judges that retreatment is unlikely to work.
Considering that apectomy is a surgical procedure, it is normal for you to experience swelling for 48 to 72 hours and mild to moderate pain following the procedure.
Please refer to the post-operative advice section for further information.