Sometimes, even high-quality root canal treatment is not enough to completely eliminate an infection at the tip of a tooth’s root. In such cases, a root-end resection (apicoectomy) may be the solution – a minor surgical procedure that can save the tooth and prevent extraction.
What is a root-end resection?
It is the precise removal of a small portion of the root together with the inflamed tissue in the surrounding bone. In this way, we can eliminate chronic infection and extend the lifespan of a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed.
Modern diagnostics and planning
Before the procedure, we always carry out:
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CBCT (3D X-ray) – to see the exact position of the infection, the root, and nearby anatomical structures.
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Digital tooth scan – used in the design of surgical guides.
At Madaras Dental, we routinely prepare 3D-printed surgical guides. These work much like laparoscopic surgery – allowing us to access the precise area with minimal removal of healthy bone. The result: faster treatment, less discomfort, and better healing.
When is root-end resection appropriate?
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for chronic infections at the root tip that persist even after root canal treatment,
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when the tooth is strategically important in a larger prosthetic work (e.g., bridge),
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when repeating endodontic treatment is not possible or advisable.
How does the procedure work?
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Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area.
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A small incision is made to access the root tip.
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The tip of the root and the inflamed tissue are removed.
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Retrograde filling – the root end is sealed with a special biocompatible material (such as MTA) to prevent reinfection.
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The wound is sutured, and healing begins.
Benefits of root-end resection
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preserves your natural tooth,
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faster recovery compared to extraction and implant placement,
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high success rate with proper planning and modern techniques.
👉 At Madaras Dental, we combine the precision of 3D technology with a gentle surgical approach to save teeth that elsewhere might be considered lost.