Leaflet Details
| Title | Apicectomy (Root-End Surgery) |
| Department | Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
| Author(s) | Youssef Akoush |
| Review Date | March 2026 |
| Next Review | March 2028 |
| Download | A4 Handout PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
What is an apicectomy?
An apicectomy removes the very tip of a tooth root (the apex) to treat an infection that has not healed after a root canal, or where the root cannot be sealed normally. The aim is to remove infected tissue and preserve your natural tooth.
Why this may be recommended
- You have ongoing infection or a small cyst at the root tip despite root canal treatment
- A re-treatment by your dentist is not practical or unlikely to succeed
- You want to try to keep the tooth rather than have it removed
Alternatives
- Repeat root canal treatment (sometimes possible)
- Extract the tooth
What are the benefits?
- Lowers the chance of infection returning
- Can save the natural tooth
- Relieves symptoms such as pain or recurring swelling
What will happen if I decide not to have the procedure?
Infection can get worse, spread, leading to jawbone loss. Infection also can cause a cyst in the bone. There is a small risk of getting a serious, life-threatening infection.
The operation - what happens?
- Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area
- A small cut (incision) is made in the gum and a flap lifted
- A small amount of bone may be removed to reach the root tip
- The infected tip of the root is removed and the area cleaned
- A small filling may be placed at the root end
- The gum is closed with stitches (usually dissolvable)
Risks and complications
Most people recover without any serious problems. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks.
Common (usually temporary): pain and swelling, bruising, difficulty opening the mouth fully for first few days.
Less common but important risks include - Infection that needs further treatment or antibiotics - Gum recession that may expose part of a crown or root - Sinus communication or sinus problems with upper back teeth - Injury to nearby structures (e.g., nerves) causing numbness or altered sensation - usually temporary but rarely permanent.
Rarely, the procedure may not be successful, and the tooth may still need to be removed.
For further information, please visit the following link:
https://www.baos.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/MF07-full-1.pdf
This leaflet provides general information only. It does not replace a discussion with your surgeon. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss alternatives before giving consent.
