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Surgical endodontics is the process of surgically removing infections that cannot be treated with standard root canal treatment. This procedure is applied especially in patients with chronic infection or cysts at the root tip.

What is Apex Resection?

Apex resection is the surgical removal of the root tip and surrounding infected tissues. It is among the conditions requiring apex resection when root canal treatment is unsuccessful and infection persists, cyst, granuloma or abscess formation at the root tip, inability to access the root canals due to anatomical reasons, presence of cracks or fractures in the tooth, and the root canal treatment cannot be reapplied.

It eliminates persistent infections. It provides a chance to keep the tooth in the mouth without extraction. As it is a surgical procedure, there may be swelling, bleeding, and mild pain. The healing process may take longer than classic root canal treatment.

How is it Applied?

The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Access to the gum is provided with surgical incisions. Infected tissues and part of the root tip are removed. The root tip is closed with MTA or a similar material. The operation area is closed and the healing process is started. Mild pain and swelling may be seen in the first few days. Antibiotics and painkillers may be recommended. Stitches are removed and the area is checked within 1-2 weeks.