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What is Apical Resection?

Apical resection is a treatment procedure used in dentistry. It is usually done to treat infections or decay at the tip of the tooth roots. This procedure, also called apical surgery, is used to address problems that occur during or after root canal treatment (endodontic treatment). Root canal treatment is done to treat an infection or inflammation that has traveled inside the tooth. Sometimes, however, problems may persist after or during root canal treatment. In this case, apical resection may be considered.

What is Apical Resection?

This procedure can help protect the tooth and solve problems that occur after root canal treatment. However, there are special circumstances in which both procedures need to be carefully evaluated and performed by a dentist. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist to solve your dental health problems.

Why is Apical Resection Performed?

This procedure, which is performed to treat infections or problems in the root tip area of the tooth, may be needed for the following conditions:

Root Canal Treatment Problems: Cases may arise where infections or inflammation persist during or after root canal treatment. Apical surgery may be required to solve such problems, especially for recurrent infections after root canal treatment.

Cysts in the Tooth:

Foreign Bodies: In rare cases, the introduction of foreign bodies into tooth roots can lead to root tip infections. In such cases, it can be performed to remove foreign bodies.

Dental Root Fractures: Fractures in tooth roots can cause problems during or after root canal treatment. Apical surgery can be used to remove the broken part of the root and control infections.

Healing After Treatment: In some cases, the tooth may need to heal after root canal treatment and apical surgery may be performed for this purpose.

Which Teeth Are Subjected to Apical Resection?

This procedure can be performed on different types of teeth such as incisors, canines, premolars (especially upper molars) and molars. Which tooth will receive the procedure is determined by the patient's x-ray images and the dentist's assessment. This procedure is used to address infections, cysts, root fractures and tooth root problems after root canal treatment.

How is Apical Resection Performed?

Apical resection is a surgical procedure performed by a dentist and involves the administration of anesthesia. An incision is made in the gum to gain access to the area of the tooth root tip, then infected or inflamed tissues are cut out and removed. The root tip is trimmed and sutured. 
The healing process can take several weeks and the patient can use painkillers and antibiotics, following the dentist's recommendations. This procedure, used to treat root tip problems and maintain dental health, requires a customized approach for each patient and should be performed by a dentist.

What to Consider After Apical Resection

Apical resection should be followed by regular use of medications prescribed by the doctor, oral hygiene, avoiding excessively hot or cold foods, limiting physical activity, reducing smoking and alcohol consumption, monitoring the healing process and following the dentist's recommendations. 

The healing process varies from person to person and patients should follow their dentist's advice carefully. In case of any problems or doubts, it is important to consult a dentist.


Updated Date:17 January 2024Creation Date:15 December 2023