Apicectomy

Apicectomy in Dublin – Surgical Root Canal Treatment

At Empire Dental Clinic in Dublin 1, we perform apicectomy (apicoectomy) surgery to save teeth when conventional root canal treatment has not eliminated infection. This microsurgical procedure removes the infected root tip and surrounding tissue, giving your tooth another chance.

Apicectomy Surgery

Save your tooth when root canal fails – Free consultation

What Is an Apicectomy?

An apicectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes the very tip (apex) of a tooth root along with any infected tissue. After removal, a small filling is placed to seal the end of the root canal, preventing further infection.

This procedure is sometimes called a root-end resection or surgical root canal treatment. It approaches the infection from the root tip rather than through the crown of the tooth.

When Is Apicectomy Recommended?

Failed Root Canal

When infection persists despite proper root canal treatment or re-treatment.

Blocked Canal

When the root canal cannot be accessed due to calcification or previous treatment.

Post and Crown Present

When removing a post risks fracturing the tooth, surgical access is safer.

Root Cyst

When a cyst has formed at the root tip that cannot be resolved with conventional treatment.

The Apicectomy Procedure

Step What Happens
1. Assessment X-rays and examination to evaluate the infection and plan the surgery.
2. Anaesthesia Local anaesthetic numbs the area completely for pain-free surgery.
3. Access A small incision in the gum exposes the root tip and surrounding bone.
4. Root Tip Removal The infected root tip (3-4mm) and surrounding infected tissue are removed.
5. Root-End Filling A small filling seals the end of the root canal to prevent reinfection.
6. Closure The gum is sutured closed. Stitches are removed after about a week.

Apicectomy Cost

Apicectomy Surgery Consultation Required

Price depends on tooth location and complexity. Free consultation available.

View Full Price List

Why Choose Empire Dental Clinic?

  • Surgical Expertise – Experienced in endodontic microsurgery
  • Modern Techniques – Microsurgical approach for precision
  • High Success Rate – Save teeth that would otherwise be lost
  • Complete Care – All dental services under one roof
  • Dublin 1 Location – Central and easily accessible
  • Flexible Hours – Mon-Fri 9:00-18:30, Sat 9:00-18:00

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an apicectomy?

An apicectomy (apicoectomy) is a surgical procedure that removes the tip of a tooth root along with infected tissue. It is performed when root canal treatment or re-treatment has not resolved an infection.

When is apicectomy needed instead of re-treatment?

Apicectomy may be preferred when there is a post or crown that is difficult to remove, a blocked canal, a persistent cyst, or when re-treatment has already failed.

Is apicectomy painful?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia so you feel no pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and managed with over-the-counter painkillers.

How successful is apicectomy?

Apicectomy has a success rate of 85-95% when performed by an experienced surgeon. It can save a tooth that would otherwise need extraction.

How long is recovery after apicectomy?

Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two. Swelling peaks around day 2-3. Complete healing of the surgical site takes a few weeks.

Patient Reviews

4.9 out of 5 based on 402 reviews
Francis Patterson
November 16, 2025
The apicectomy was necessary but the team made it as comfortable as possible.
Mary Smith
November 9, 2025
The apicectomy was necessary but the team made it as comfortable as possible.
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