Apicoectomy

An apicoectomy is sometimes advised when a root canal has failed and re-treatment is not possible or unsuccessful. An apico is the surgical removal (ectomy) of the tip (apex) of a failed root canal tooth, and any infected tissue around it. A root-end filling material is placed to seal the tooth and prevent re-infection. Your own bone will naturally heal around the root over a period of time. During this procedure, your Doctor will examine the tooth for a fracture. If fractured, an apicoectomy will not be successful and the tooth would likely be extracted. You will be advised of this at the time of treatment.