Apical Microsurgery
Introduction
If you’ve ever had a root canal, you know it’s a way to save a tooth that has become infected deep inside. But sometimes, even after a root canal, problems can persist at the tip of the root. When this happens, your dentist might recommend a procedure called apical microsurgery. Don’t let the fancy term scare you! Let’s break it down into simple terms.
What Is Apical Microsurgery?
Apical microsurgery, also called apicoectomy, is a minor surgical procedure designed to remove infection or inflammation from the tip of the tooth’s root. The word “apical” refers to the apex, which is the very tip of the tooth’s root, and “microsurgery” means that this procedure is done with very fine, precise instruments, often under a special microscope.
Think of it as a tiny cleanup job at the root tip of your tooth when other treatments (like a regular root canal) haven’t fully worked.
Why Is Apical Microsurgery Necessary?
Sometimes, despite a well-done root canal, infection or inflammation can linger in the root tip or surrounding tissue. This can cause ongoing discomfort, swelling, or even a cyst to form. Apical microsurgery is often the best option when:
- A root canal didn’t fully heal the tooth.
- There’s a small fracture or blockage that can’t be fixed from inside the tooth.
- A recurring infection occurs at the tip of the root.
The goal is to eliminate the problem at the source and save the tooth, so you don’t have to undergo an extraction and replacement.
How Is Apical Microsurgery Performed?
Here’s a simple step-by-step overview of what happens during an apical microsurgery procedure:
- Numbing the Area: Your dentist or endodontist (a specialist in root canals) will first numb the area around the tooth so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
- Accessing the Root Tip: The dentist makes a small incision in the gum near the affected tooth. This allows them to reach the tip of the root without going through the top of the tooth again.
- Removing the Root Tip and Infection: Using precision tools, the endodontist removes the very tip of the root, where the infection or inflammation is located. Any infected tissue around the root is also cleaned out.
- Sealing the Root: Once the infected part is removed, the endodontist fills and seals the root tip with a special material to prevent any future infections.
- Stitching the Gums: The incision is closed with a few tiny stitches, and the healing process begins.
What Happens After the Procedure?
Like any surgical procedure, there is a recovery period, but it’s usually straightforward. After the surgery, you may experience some swelling and tenderness around the area, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients can return to their normal routine in a few days.
In a follow-up visit, your dentist will check the healing progress and make sure the infection is gone. In most cases, apical microsurgery is successful in saving the tooth and preventing further issues.
Why Is It Important to Save the Tooth?
Whenever possible, dentists aim to save your natural teeth. Your natural tooth is stronger than any artificial replacement, and it allows you to chew and speak naturally. Apical microsurgery is often the last chance to save a tooth before considering extraction and more invasive alternatives like implants.