The so-called apicoectomy is an option of last resort when several root canal treatments have failed. We have divided the course of a root treatment into manageable steps so that you can understand it. If the dentist has to resect the root tip, we also explain that procedure.
How a root treatment proceeds
Every tooth in the human mouth is built inside so that it has many roots and canals lying close together. In the root canals is the pulp, which contains all the blood vessels and the nerve tissue. If this area becomes inflamed, the person affected can suffer severe, usually throbbing toothache. Several steps are then needed for a root treatment. To clean the nerve cavity completely, the dentist must first drill into or open the tooth. Special antibacterial rinses are used for disinfection, which kills all the bacteria. Besides disinfecting, the dentist also removes dead or inflamed tissue from inside the root canals. In the last two phases of treatment the cleaned canal system is filled. The tooth is then sealed, frequently with a crown.
How long does a root treatment take?
On average a single session lasts 60 minutes. Depending on the circumstances, treatment can take a shorter or longer time. The duration ultimately depends on the individual patient’s situation. It also matters whether this is a first treatment or a revision. The methods and instruments used can influence the duration too, as can how severe the inflammation of the tooth is. Usually at least two sessions are needed, but often several. The initial consultations that form part of the diagnostic process are a separate matter.
The last chance to save the tooth is an apicoectomy
Surgery comes into consideration when repeated root treatment does not make the inflammation subside because it keeps coming back. The so-called apicoectomy is then planned. If root resorption, root fracture or severe inflammatory damage is diagnosed, removing the root tip is frequently the only possible therapy, because in such cases conservative treatments are no longer possible. To expose part of the bone, the gum around the root tip must first be loosened. Then the root tip and further inflamed tissue are cut away. Afterwards the inside of the root can be cleaned and filled, starting from the tip. After treatment the patient has to wait for the bone around the root end to recover.
