Apicectomy advice sheet   

What is an Apicectomy?

An apicectomy is the name for removing the tip (or a small portion of the root) of the tooth, cleaning out the surrounding infection and placing a small filling to seal the end of the tooth.

 

Why am I having an apicectomy?

The most common reason is that some infection remains after conventional root canal therapy, resulting in pain, swelling or discharge over the top of the tooth in the gum.

 

How long will it take?

On average 30 minutes but it may take longer if you are having a number of teeth treated or the tooth has several roots. Also if the tooth has had a previous apicectomy it may take longer.

 

Will I be in pain afterwards?

Immediately after the procedure, the area of surgery will be numb, due to the surgeon using local anaesthetic. However, after several hours this will wear off and the area will probably feel sore, so it is advisable to take painkillers as suggested by the doctor.

 

Are there any after effects?

The main effect will be pain and soreness. However, the area of surgery, and close to it may also become swollen.

 

There is also the chance that the procedure will not completely resolve the problem (success rates for a 1st apicectomy are approximately 75%, but this decreases for subsequent apicectomies).

 

Will there be any stitches?

If the surgeon uses stitches to close up the site, these are sometimes dissolvable, but it not they will be removed at the Oral Surgery Department in a week’s time. You will be given an appointment if this is necessary. They are easily removed.

 

When can I return to work?

This largely depends on your occupation and how you are afterwards. It may be possible for you to return to work the next day. However, some people may need time off work.

 

Are there any things I should do when I get home?

¨ On the day of surgery avoid rinsing you mouth as this may cause bleeding. The day after use a mouthwash made up with a teaspoonful of salt in a tumbler of water,        as hot as you can comfortably tolerate in the mouth. Gently rinse this fluid over the operation area, after each meal and last thing at night, using the whole tumbler full (this should be commenced the day after surgery).             

 

¨ The site of the surgery may bleed. Sit down and roll up a swab and apply pressure over the area for at least 10 minutes.          

 

¨ Clean your teeth after each meal and last thing at night, including those teeth next to the operation site.     

 

¨ Take simple painkillers, as required.

 

¨ If your surgeon has prescribed antibiotics, take them as prescribed and remember to finish the course. Do not mix them with alcohol.   

 

¨ Adjust your diet towards normal as you become more comfortable.

 

¨ Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided.

 

Will I need another appointment?

It is likely you will be reviewed at 1—2 weeks to remove any stitches, and then at 1 month and 3 months to ensure that all is well and normal healing is taking place.

If you have any problems we can address them at that time.

 

REMEMBER

 

Keep the mouth as clean as possible and take all medication.

 

We do hope that this sheet has been helpful. If you have any comments please do not hesitate to tell us.

This leaflet has been designed for you to improve your understanding of your forthcoming operation and contains many commonly asked questions. If you have any questions or would like further explanation please discuss this with your doctor or attending nurse