Apical surgery, or apicoectomy, is a minor dental procedure that removes infection from the tip of a tooth’s root. It’s usually performed when a root canal hasn’t fully healed the infection. The dentist opens the gum, removes the tip of the root, cleans the area, and seals it to prevent further infection and save the tooth.
Apical surgery includes two primary approaches traditional apicoectomy and microsurgical apicoectomy. In the traditional method, the gum is lifted to access and remove the root tip. Microsurgical apical surgery uses magnification and fine instruments to increase precision and reduce tissue damage, leading to faster healing, less discomfort, and improved long-term results in infected root treatments.
Apical surgery is usually needed when previous root canal treatment has failed. Common causes include deep infections, untreated root branches, or cysts at the root tip. In some cases, complex root anatomy or cracks may contribute. This procedure allows dentists to eliminate infection at the root end, save the natural tooth, and prevent the need for extraction.
Symptoms that may signal the need for apical surgery include persistent pain after a root canal, swelling near the affected tooth, tenderness when chewing, and recurring gum pimples (fistulas). These are signs of lingering infection at the tooth root, which requires surgical removal of the infected root tip to prevent further dental complications and protect the tooth.
Dentists use dental X-rays, CBCT scans, and oral examinations to detect root infections that remain after root canal treatment. If signs of inflammation, bone loss, or a cyst appear near the root tip, and previous treatments haven’t worked, apical surgery may be recommended. This ensures a complete solution for persistent tooth root infections without extracting the tooth.
Apical surgery is performed under local anesthesia for comfort. The dentist lifts the gum, accesses the tooth root, and removes the infected root tip. The area is thoroughly cleaned and sealed to prevent future infection. The gum is then sutured, and healing begins. This treatment helps preserve the natural tooth and improves long-term oral health outcomes.
If you experience recurring dental pain or swelling near a treated tooth, it's time to consult a dental specialist.
Continued discomfort weeks or months after root canal therapy may mean infection remains at the root tip.
Swelling or pus-filled lumps on the gums often point to hidden infections needing surgical treatment.
Persistent pressure sensitivity could indicate infection around the root area that hasn’t healed fully.
A small bump on the gum that keeps returning is often a sign of chronic infection at the root.
If your dental X-ray shows dark spots near the root, your dentist may suggest apical surgery.
Discectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery that helps relieve pressure on nerves by removing damaged...
Laser acne removal is a non-invasive, light-based treatment that targets acne-causing bacteria and inflammation, resulting in...
Tricuspid valve surgery is a life-saving procedure to repair or replace a damaged valve, restoring blood...
Dialysis helps remove waste and excess fluid when kidneys fail. It supports life by replacing lost...
Get expert help at every step from inquiry to consultation to hospital booking. Your care journey, simplified and supported.
Expert care with advanced technology, personalized treatment, and seamless healthcare support.
All mediSuggest partner dentists are thoroughly vetted for qualifications, licenses, and track records, ensuring patients receive safe, expert-led apical surgeries with proven success.
Access advanced apical surgery services across major Indian cities, making it easy to find high-quality dental care close to home with minimal travel.
Clinics use modern tools like digital X-rays and CBCT scans to precisely diagnose tooth root issues and plan accurate surgical interventions with greater confidence.
Modern microsurgical instruments enable detailed, minimally invasive procedures, reducing tissue damage, enhancing accuracy, and promoting faster healing after apical surgery.
Each patient receives a tailored surgical plan based on their dental condition, ensuring targeted care, better results, and optimal long-term oral health.
Your comfort and well-being matter most. From first consultation to post-surgery follow-ups, we prioritize support, transparency, and a smooth recovery experience.
I was nervous, but the doctors were kind and skilled. The apical surgery helped save my tooth.
Deepak Menon Apical Surgery
After months of dental discomfort, apical surgery solved my issue. The specialists were very knowledgeable and made the process feel stress-free.
Neha Kulkarni Apical Surgery
I was afraid of dental surgery, but the apical procedure was easy and effective. Healing took just a few days.
Rohit Bansal Apical Surgery
From consultation to follow-up, the mediSuggest team was supportive. The apical surgery was successful, and the aftercare made healing comfortable.
Lakshmi Patel Apical Surgery
My apical surgery was nearly painless. The team explained everything clearly, and my recovery was quicker than expected.
Manish Verma Apical Surgery
I had anxiety about dental surgery, but apical surgery went smoothly. The doctors were reassuring, and I healed quickly without complications.
Anita Suresh Apical Surgery
Apical surgery is done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild soreness afterward is manageable with prescribed medications.
The procedure usually takes 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth and extent of the infection.
Yes, it’s often better to save your natural tooth when possible. Apical surgery helps preserve your tooth’s structure and function.
Most patients resume normal activities in 2–3 days. Complete healing may take a few weeks depending on individual health.
Risks are minimal but may include swelling, infection, or minor bleeding. Your dentist will discuss all precautions with you.
