Description
Apicectomy or removal of the root apex of a tooth is a surgical procedure in which, in order to preserve the affected tooth, the inflamed tip of its root is removed together with the surrounding inflammatory tissue or cyst. The cavity at the site of the removed inflammatory focus and the tip of the root will be gradually filled with healthy bone or scar.
The procedure is performed in local anaesthesia and lasts 30 to 60 minutes. The entire procedure is done through the mouth. With a small incision through the mucosa, we approach the apex of the affected tooth root. Using special instruments we cut off the tip of the root and clean the surrounding inflamed tissue. The root is then retrogradely filled with biocompatible material (MTA). The mucosa is closed with surgical sutures, which are removed 7 to 10 days after surgery. Before the procedure, a consultation with a surgeon and radiographic images are required.
Recovery
- Week 1: Rest and cooling of the operated side. Moderate and temporary swelling of the cheek and lips is possible. You can return to work the next day. Good oral hygiene is mandatory.
- Week 2: 7 to 10 days after the surgery the sutures are removed.
- Month 6: Radiographic image is done to check bone healing.
Instructions after the surgery procedure:
On the day of surgery and two days after it:
- Ice packs.
- Do not smoke and drink alcohol.
- Painkillers if necessary: Paracetamol, Naproxene, Diclofenac, Etoricoxib, Metamizole (no Aspirin).
- Cold and soft diet and cold drinks, after meals rinse mouth with water.
- Do not cut into the wound. Food debris that accumulates on surgical sutures at the wound can be wiped painlessly and safely with a damp cotton swab.
- Take care of good oral hygiene (tooth brushing).
- Do not apply any medication or dressing to the wound.
If you have any problems in the weeks after the operation (increase in swelling 3 days after the operation, redness, pain, discharge, fever, sensory disturbances), come for a check-up immediately!