Lower molar after root end surgery

A root end surgery, also known as apicoectomy (L. apex, apicis: a summit or a tip), is an endodontic surgical procedure whereby a tooth's root tip is removed and a root end cavity is prepared and filled with a biocompatible material.

This is usually necessitated when a conventional root canal therapy had failed and a re-treatment was already unsuccessful or is not advised.^[1] State of the art procedures make use of microsurgical techniques, such as a dental operating microscope, micro instruments, ultrasonic preparation tips and calcium-silicate based filling materials.

Removal of the root tip is indicated to remove the entire apical delta ensuring no uncleaned missed anatomy.

[edit] References

[edit] External links

• Explanation of Surgical Endodontics & Apicœctomy
• Apicœctomy Warnings
• Apicoectomy procedure described (site sponsored by Aetna Dental Plans)
• Illustration of an apicoectomy
• Apical abscess from the On-Line Medical Dictionary
• American Association of Endodontists

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