Endodontics
Apicoectomy (surgical endodontics)
Minor surgery to remove infection from the tip of a tooth's root.
Purpose
Clear root-tip infection
Visit
One procedure
Anaesthetic
Local
Healing
A few days
Overview
An apicoectomy treats infection around the very end of a root when standard root canal treatment has not solved it. The dentist reaches the root tip through the gum, removes the tip and seals it.
It is usually done under local anaesthetic and aims to save a tooth that would otherwise need removing. It is sometimes called surgical endodontics.
What to know
- Treats infection at the root tip
- Used when retreatment is not enough
- Done through the gum under local anaesthetic
- Aims to save the tooth
Common questions
When is an apicoectomy needed?
Usually when infection lingers after root canal treatment or retreatment.
Is the surgery painful?
The area is numbed, so you should feel pressure rather than pain during it.
What is recovery like?
Mild swelling and tenderness for a few days are common and usually settle quickly.
How successful is it?
Many teeth heal well, though no procedure can be guaranteed.
What if it does not heal?
Removing the tooth may then be the most reliable option.
Related topics
Root canal treatment
Treatment that saves a tooth by removing infected or damaged tissue inside it.
Root canal retreatment
Repeating root canal treatment when a tooth does not heal or becomes infected again.
Dental abscess & facial swelling
A dental abscess is an infection that needs prompt treatment.
Caring for your mouth after oral surgery
Simple aftercare that helps you heal comfortably and avoid problems.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026