Apical Resection Procedures

Infections caused by bacteria in the tissues surrounding the teeth or around the roots of the teeth can focus here and infect the round tissues. In this case, it is necessary to clean the bacteria in the canals with root canal treatment, but sometimes this does not provide sufficient tissue cleaning, and additionally, complete and continuous tissue health around the root can be achieved with an additional treatment called apical resection.

What is Apical Resection?

Apical resection treatments aim to keep the teeth healthy in cases where there are cysts or persistent infections at the tips of the roots. In this procedure, the last part of the roots and the inflamed tissues around this area are surgically removed, and the teeth are kept healthy in the mouth with root canal treatment. In cases where root canal treatment alone is not sufficient, infected tissues are cleaned through apical resection as a result of the collaboration between surgical and endodontic specialties. The remaining healthy tissues are preserved, and the treatment of the tooth and surrounding tissues is completed.

When Should Apical Resection Treatments Be Applied?

In cases where root canal treatment alone is insufficient and it has been determined that the inflamed tissues around the root are dense and specific,

In cases where root canal treatment has previously been performed but there is insufficient tissue healing at the root tip and surrounding area,

As a result of traumas that cause injuries to the tooth roots,

Additionally, apical resection is a good treatment option in situations where the anatomical condition does not allow for normal root canal treatment.

Which Teeth Can Apical Resection Treatments Be Applied To?

Apical resection treatments can be applied to all teeth, including molars, when anatomical conditions permit and intraoral scans can be performed.

How Is Apical Resection Treatment Carried Out?

Before the procedure, a detailed treatment plan is made with intraoral scans and X-rays. Local anesthesia is applied to the area before starting the procedure, and infected tissues are surgically removed starting from the gum and extending to the tip of the tooth root. The area is filled with compatible and impermeable materials, and the surgical procedure is completed with stitches.

When Can Apical Resection Treatments Be Applied?

In cases where the infection in the teeth is excessively spread or in certain situations where the anatomical structure of the teeth and jaws is not suitable, alternative treatments may be considered instead of apical resection treatment.

What Should Be Considered After Apical Resection Treatments?

Since apical resection is a surgical procedure, it is necessary to regularly use the medications recommended by doctors and apply cold compresses at the specified times after the procedure. It is considered normal to have some swelling or pain after treatment; attending follow-up appointments and adhering to doctors’ recommendations will minimize these possibilities. Soft-bristled toothbrushes and mouth rinses are also prescribed for the cleanliness of the area, and doctors will explain in detail how to use them. Spicy foods should be avoided after the procedure, and it is also advised to protect the area from trauma and not to pull on the cheeks. As long as these recommendations are followed, the treatment will not affect normal social life.