What is a root-end resection?

An apicoectomy, or root-end resection, is a surgical procedure that removes the tip of a tooth root.

We will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone and any inflamed tissue that surrounds your tooth during the procedure. The end of your tooth’s root tip and any damaged tissue will then be removed. We will suture your gum and place a root-end filling on your tooth to prevent it from becoming infected again.

Why do I need a Root-End Resection?

There may be several reasons why your Endodontist would recommend a root-end resection. Usually, a non-surgical Root Canal Treatment is sufficient to save an injured tooth. However, if your endodontist believes that a root canal will not be enough to heal your tooth, they will recommend a surgical procedure.

The most common surgery, in this case, is a Root-End Resection. We use surgeries such as this to locate fractures or other hidden injuries that don’t appear on x-ray films but which may be causing you pain. Sometimes, we will also use these procedures to treat damage to your tooth root surfaces or the surrounding bone.

What happens afterward?

After your procedure, you may experience some slight discomfort or swelling as your incision heals. This is normal for any surgical procedure and is not cause for alarm. Over the period of a few months, your bone will naturally heal around the root of your tooth and full function will be restored.

To alleviate any discomfort, we may recommend appropriate pain medication. If you experience pain that the medication does not address, please call our office at (860) 583-8379.