Apicoectomy is also known as root-end surgery, retrograde root canal treatment, or root-end filling. Root end filling is an endodontic surgical procedure where a tooth’s root tip is removed, and a root end cavity is prepared and filled with a material.

This is usually necessitated when a conventional root canal therapy had failed, and a re-treatment was already unsuccessful or is not advised. State-of-the-art procedures make use of microsurgical techniques, such as a dental operating microscope, micro instruments, ultrasonic preparation tips, and calcium-silicate-based filling materials.

Removal of the root tip is indicated to remove the entire apical delta ensuring no uncleaned missed anatomy. After the root tip is removed, a root end cavity is prepared using ultrasonic preparation tips or heated and diamond burrs. The aim of this procedure is to remove all infected tissue from the tooth’s apex.

Once the root end cavity has been adequately cleaned, it may then be filled with a material such as calcium-silicate-based filling materials, which are known for their biocompatibility and bioresorbability. Allowing for great bonding between dentin and fillings as well as preventing residual infection from leaking into the surrounding bone and soft tissues.

While apicoectomies can be done on its own if necessary, they are often paired with conventional root canal therapy to ensure full removal of infected tissue. The success rate for this procedure is around 92 to 98%, depending on a number of factors such as the overall health of the patient, how well the root canal therapy was done previously, etc.

Overall, apicoectomies are an important and effective procedure in treating endodontic infections that have not been successfully treated through conventional root canal therapy. If you are experiencing any symptoms such as pain or swelling in your teeth, it’s best to seek out a dentist for an evaluation and possible apicoectomy treatment.​

As someone who has had an apicoectomy before, I can say that it is a relatively simple procedure with only mild discomfort afterward. However, it is extremely important to ensure that you choose a dentist who is highly skilled in this procedure to ensure your best chances of a successful outcome. So if you are experiencing any symptoms related to endodontic infections, be sure to visit your dentist for an evaluation and possible apicoectomy treatment.​