Apico surgery—also called root-end surgery or apicoectomy—is a specialized procedure that targets infection at the very tip of a tooth’s root. When a tooth continues to ache or swell even after a root canal, the problem may run deeper than the surface.
At Foundation Dental Specialists in Pasadena, our goal is to help you understand when this procedure is needed, what it involves, and how it can save your natural smile.
What Is Apico Surgery and How Does It Work?
Sometimes, even a well-performed root canal can leave behind bacteria that cause lingering discomfort. That’s where apico surgery becomes essential—it allows specialists to treat infection at the root’s end, where standard treatment cannot reach.
Definition and Purpose
Apico surgery is a minor surgical procedure performed by an endodontist to remove infected tissue and the tip of the tooth’s root. The area is cleaned thoroughly, and the end of the root canal is sealed to prevent further infection. This targeted approach helps preserve your natural tooth and restore comfort without resorting to extraction.
How It Differs from a Root Canal
While a standard root canal treats infection inside the tooth, apico surgery treats the area around the root’s tip. It’s often the next step when previous treatments fail or when infection recurs after root canal therapy. In short, a root canal saves the tooth from within; apico surgery ensures the surrounding tissue heals and remains healthy.
Why Apico Surgery Is Performed
When dental pain persists, it’s natural to wonder why it’s happening. Understanding the reason behind apico surgery helps you see why it’s sometimes the most effective way to stop recurring infections for good.
Persistent or Recurring Infection
Occasionally, microscopic root branches, hidden canals, or anatomical variations make it difficult to remove all bacteria during a root canal. When that happens, infection can persist or return, leading to inflammation around the root’s tip. Apico surgery precisely targets that area—removing infection at its source to protect the bone and surrounding tissue.
Effectiveness of the Procedure
Modern apico surgery is highly successful when performed by experienced specialists. Using advanced technology and microsurgical tools, endodontists can achieve remarkable accuracy with minimal discomfort. Most patients recover quickly and enjoy long-term results—preserving their natural tooth and avoiding the complications of extraction or implants.
Apico Dental Surgery: When Is It Necessary?
It’s not always easy to tell when a dental issue needs surgical attention. However, recognizing the symptoms early can prevent infection from spreading and protect the integrity of your smile.
Apico dental surgery may be recommended when the following warning signs appear:
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Ongoing pain or swelling near a previously treated tooth
- Tenderness or pressure when biting or chewing
- Gum inflammation or drainage near the affected area
- Recurrent abscesses or cysts at the root tip
- Persistent discomfort despite prior dental treatment
These symptoms often indicate that infection remains deep within the bone or tissues surrounding the tooth’s root. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in saving the tooth.
Importance of Early Recognition
Ignoring these warning signs can allow infection to spread, weakening nearby bone and jeopardizing your oral health. Seeking professional evaluation promptly ensures the best possible outcome—and can prevent the need for more invasive procedures later.
What to Expect During Apico Surgery
Before undergoing any dental procedure, knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and help you feel in control. At Foundation Dental Specialists, we prioritize transparency and comfort every step of the way.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Local Anesthesia: The area around the affected tooth is gently numbed to ensure comfort.
- Accessing the Root Tip: A small incision is made in the gum to expose the infected root end.
- Removing the Infection: The specialist removes infected tissue and trims a small portion of the root tip.
- Sealing and Cleaning: The area is disinfected, and the root end is sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection.
- Healing and Recovery: The gum is sutured, and natural healing begins almost immediately. Most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
Comfort and Recovery
Discomfort after surgery is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Minor swelling or tenderness may occur but usually resolves within a few days. Our specialists provide complete aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
Advanced Apico Surgery Care at Foundation Dental Specialists
When persistent pain or swelling demands expert intervention, you deserve care that combines precision, experience, and compassion. At Foundation Dental Specialists in Pasadena, our specialists perform apico dental surgery using the latest technology and evidence-based techniques to deliver long-lasting results.
Expertise You Can Trust
Our team includes board-certified endodontists and periodontists with advanced surgical training. With decades of collective experience, we specialize in saving natural teeth through procedures that prioritize both effectiveness and patient comfort.
Modern Technology for Better Outcomes
- 3D CBCT Imaging: Enables detailed visualization of the tooth’s root structure and surrounding bone for accurate diagnosis.
- Microsurgical Tools: Allow for precision treatment with minimal tissue disruption.
- Laser and Ultrasonic Technology: Promote faster healing and more efficient removal of infected tissue.
These innovations enhance accuracy, minimize discomfort, and improve long-term results—helping patients regain full function and confidence in their smiles.
Our Commitment to Patient Comfort and Care
Every patient deserves a dental experience that’s calm, caring, and centered on their needs. At Foundation Dental Specialists, that philosophy guides everything we do.
From your first visit, our team takes the time to listen, explain, and address any concerns. We believe that informed patients are empowered patients. That’s why we clearly outline every step of the procedure, answer all questions, and ensure you feel at ease from start to finish.
Our practice combines compassionate care with advanced dentistry, delivering an experience that’s as stress-free as possible—because healing starts with trust.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If you’ve had a root canal but continue to experience pain or swelling, don’t wait for the discomfort to worsen. You may be a candidate for apico surgery, a precise and effective solution for lingering infection.
At Foundation Dental Specialists in Pasadena, we’re here to help you find lasting relief and restore your oral health with confidence. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or consultation. Our caring team will evaluate your condition, explain your options, and guide you toward the best path for healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I still feeling pain months after a root canal?
Persistent pain may mean that bacteria remain around the root tip, causing reinfection. In such cases, apico surgery can remove the infected tissue and promote proper healing.
Is apico surgery painful?
No. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Mild soreness afterward is normal but short-lived and manageable with simple care.
How long does it take to recover from apico dental surgery?
Most patients resume normal activities within two to three days. Complete healing inside the bone can take a few months, but discomfort typically subsides quickly.
Can apico surgery save my tooth if the infection has spread?
Yes—if treated promptly. The procedure removes the infection’s source, allowing the bone and tissue to heal naturally. However, delaying care can reduce the chances of saving the tooth.
What happens if I don’t get apico surgery when recommended?
Ignoring ongoing infection may cause it to spread, leading to bone loss, tooth instability, or even extraction. Early treatment with an experienced specialist prevents these complications and protects your oral health.
