Apicoectomy in Norwalk, CT
A second chance to save a tooth that has already had a root canal, with root-end surgery to treat infection at the tip of the root.
Treating the Infection From the Other Side
Occasionally, infection persists at the very tip of a tooth's root even after a root canal, sometimes months or years later. An apicoectomy, also called root-end surgery or endodontic microsurgery, is a minor surgical procedure that removes the infected tissue and a small portion of the root end, then seals the root from that end.
It is a targeted way to save a tooth that has already had a root canal, rather than resorting to extraction.
When an Apicoectomy May Help
A Root Canal That Hasn't Fully Healed
Lingering discomfort, swelling or a spot on an X-ray near a tooth that has already had a root canal can mean infection remains at the root tip.
About root canals →Retreatment Would Mean Starting Over
When a tooth already has a crown or anchors a bridge, retreating the root canal from the top would mean cutting back through that restoration. Treating the root tip from the outside can avoid that.
Keeping Your Natural Tooth
The goal is to give the same natural tooth a second chance rather than moving straight to extraction.
Your Apicoectomy Visit
Exam & Imaging
We examine the tooth and review X-rays, with 3D imaging when it helps, to see the root tip and the bone around it.
Comfort
The area is numbed with local anesthetic, and sedation is available if you would like to be more relaxed.
Access
A small incision is made in the gum near the tooth's root tip.
Root-End Treatment
The infected tissue and the last few millimeters of the root tip are removed, and the end of the root is sealed.
Closing & Healing
The gum is closed with a few small sutures. The visit typically runs 30–90 minutes, depending on the tooth, and swelling and mild soreness are common over the first few days.
For recovery detail, see our Apicoectomy Guide →
Still Uncomfortable After a Root Canal?
Tell us what you are feeling and we will take a look.
Ask About Apicoectomy →Apicoectomy FAQ
A root canal cleans and seals the inside of the tooth. An apicoectomy treats the very tip of the root from the outside, through the gum. It is usually considered when infection persists after a root canal.
The area is numbed with local anesthetic, and sedation is available if you want it. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, and mild soreness is normal as the anesthetic wears off.
The visit typically runs 30–90 minutes, depending on the tooth. Swelling usually begins and peaks on the first day, and swelling and bruising are common over the next few days. We give you written aftercare instructions and check your healing at follow-up visits.
An apicoectomy is one of the most reliable ways to treat a persistent root canal infection without losing the tooth, but no procedure is guaranteed. We will review your X-rays and your healing along the way.
Coverage depends on your specific plan. We will give you a clear estimate beforehand.
Need a Second Look at a Root Canal?
Join our patient list and we will find a time to evaluate your tooth once we open.