Endodontic microsurgery, also known as apical microsurgery or a root-end resection, is a type of dental procedure that is used to save a tooth that has had an unsuccessful root canal treatment or has developed a complication.
Endodontic microsurgery involves making a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth to gain access to the root of the tooth. We will then use a dental microscope and specialized instruments to remove any remaining infected tissue and to clean and shape the canals at the tip of the root. We may also remove a small portion of the root tip, which is called a root-end resection.
Once the canals have been cleaned and shaped, we will fill them with a biocompatible material and seal the tooth. We may also place a small filling in the incision site to help it heal.
Endodontic microsurgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and may take several hours to complete. The recovery period is usually short, and patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.
Endodontic microsurgery is often successful in saving a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted, and it can help to prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the body. We may recommend endodontic microsurgery if you have had a failed root canal treatment or if you have a tooth that has developed a complication that cannot be treated with a conventional root canal treatment.