Root Surgeries

WHAT is a tooth root surgery?

Tooth root surgery ( endodontic surgery) typically refers to:

• Apicoectomy: The most common type. It involves surgically removing the tip (apex) of the tooth root and sealing the end.

• Root amputation: Removal of one root in a multi-rooted tooth.

• Hemisection: Splitting a molar in half and removing one part along with its root.

WHY is it done?

Tooth root surgery is usually needed when:

• A root canal has failed or infection persists after treatment.

• There’s a cyst, crack, or fracture in the root.

• Inflammation/infection doesn’t resolve after non-surgical treatment.

• A post in the root canal prevents re-treatment.

• There are complex canal structures that couldn’t be cleaned out with traditional methods.

 

WHEN is it needed?

You might need root surgery if:

• You have persistent pain or swelling after a root canal.

• X-rays show a lesion or cyst at the root tip.

• There’s a fractured root or damage that doesn't allow for a regular root canal re-treatment.

• Your dentist says the previous root canal treatment can’t be redone from the top (crown) due to obstacles like metal posts.

 

How many visits are needed?

Typical appointment plan: generally 2 to 4 visits total, spaced out over 2 to 4 weeks.

 

Extra Notes:

• Healing can take several months internally, but you can resume normal activities in 1–2 days.

• Pain is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter painkillers.

• Success rates are high (~85-90%) if performed by an experienced endodontist.

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