Apicoectomy consists in the surgical removal of the root apex, the
infection surrounding it and in closing (retrograde obturation) of
the open canal. The least complex apicoectomies involve one-root teeth
(top and bottom incisors and canines); greater difficulties emerge
in the case of molars - owing to the greater number of canals (three
in the top teeth, two in the bottom teeth) and especially the difficult
vision of the operating area – and premolars.
Apicoectomy is useful when the canal is obstructed owing to either
artificial or natural causes (a root-canal piece of equipment or a
non-removable pivot shaft). In case of granuloma or non-patent canal
(which may not be reached by means of root-canal equipment), apicoectomy
is resorted to, although it is an invasive and debilitating operation
(the tooth becomes shorter and has a shorter life).
© Dott.
Alfieri Giuliano 