Introduction
The apicoectomy is usually the last step to save a natural tooth. Due to a carious infection that has worked its way through the tooth, the root canal has already had to be treated. During this procedure, the inflamed tissue is removed and filled with a material.
In some cases, however, due to residual bacteria, the inflammation may reoccur and the root canal filling may need to be revised. The removal of the root tip is recommended if a root canal treatment would not bring further success, if apical periodontitis is present, if instruments have broken off and remained in the canal or if there are general fractures in the lower third of the root. Root apex resection is a surgical procedure, as gums are cut away and bone must be removed.
The inflamed tissue is removed and the root tip is severed. The root canal filling is also checked again and renewed if necessary. Finally, the surrounding tissue is folded back and the area is sutured.
The only alternative to a root tip resection is usually tooth removal (extraction). After the procedure one should take it easy and not put too much strain on the body. Swelling and pain may occur because there is a wound that needs to heal.
This requires time and rest. However, the pain usually disappears after a certain time and the stitches are removed after about a week. If the pain persists, it is advisable to visit the dentist again, as complications may have occurred.
To relieve the pain, the dentist may prescribe painkillers such as ibuprofen. Agents containing acetylsalicylic acid are not recommended due to the increased bleeding tendency. Also the food should not be too hard and firm in the first time. It is better to eat a mushy diet so as not to irritate the wound. Sweet or sour drinks, alcohol and coffee should also not be consumed for the time being, as they also have a negative influence on wound healing and can cause inflammation.
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