Sometimes, even after endodontic treatment, more commonly known as a root canal has been performed on a tooth, there can be a residual infection remaining at the end of the root. In such a case, your doctor may recommend a procedure called an apicoectomy be done to remove the infected area. Symptoms of an infection of the root tip include: throbbing tooth pain, sensitivity to heat and sensitivity to touch when chewing. If the infection progresses, it can cause fever, swollen lymph nodes and sinus pain. If left untreated, it may result in loss of the tooth and spreading of the infection throughout your body. An apicoectomy involves your doctor accessing the infection through a small opening created above the tooth. The infected tissue is then removed from the area. Next, the tip of the root is slightly reduced to remove any additional infection, and then the opening is cleaned and filled with a special material. Once this is complete, the area is closed up and left to heal. Healing for an apicoectomy depends on the severity of the infection, and can range from months to a year to fully heal. With the infection removed and the root resealed, the tooth has been saved and restored to its natural function.
