Also known as root-end resection.
The most common endodontic surgery is called apicoectomy or root-end resection. There are times when root canal therapy alone cannot thoroughly disinfect the root canal system due to complicated anatomy, separated instruments or posts. An apicoectomy can solve these problems by allowing the endodontist to treat the affected area without going through the crown of the tooth. In this procedure small incisions are made in the gums to allow access to the end of the root(s). This is a very routine and straightforward procedure that patients report is painless.