Surgical Root Canals In San Diego
What are Surgical Root Canals?
Surgical root canals, also known as apicoectomies, are endodontic procedures performed when traditional root canal therapy is insufficient to save a tooth. During an apicoectomy, the infected root tip is removed, and the root is sealed to prevent further infection. While no one wants to undergo surgery, this procedure can save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction and replacement with an implant or bridge. Here are some reasons you may need an apicoectomy to regain your oral health and relieve your pain.
Persistent Pain or Infection
If you experience persistent pain or signs of infection after a root canal, a surgical approach may be necessary to address the issue.
Fractured or Blocked Roots
When a tooth root is fractured or blocked, making traditional root canal treatment difficult or impossible, an apicoectomy may be the best solution.
Unsuccessful Previous Root Canal
If a previous root canal fails to heal properly or becomes reinfected, a surgical root canal can often save the tooth.
Complex Tooth Anatomy
In some cases, a tooth's anatomy may be too complex for traditional root canal therapy, necessitating a surgical approach to ensure successful treatment.

The Benefits of Surgical Root Canals
Saves Your Natural Tooth
Surgical root canals allow you to keep your natural tooth, preserving your smile and avoiding the need for extraction and replacement.
Resolves Persistent Infections
Apicoectomies target stubborn infections that persist after traditional root canal therapy, ensuring a successful outcome and protecting your oral health.
Relieves Pain and Discomfort
By addressing the underlying cause of your pain, surgical root canals provide relief and allow you to enjoy a comfortable, healthy smile.
Our Approach to Surgical Root Canals
At Relieve, we prioritize your comfort and well-being during surgical root canal procedures. Our endodontist uses advanced techniques, dental operating microscopes, and sedation options to ensure precise, minimally invasive treatment. We administer anti-inflammatory medications during sedation, prior to the procedure, to minimize postoperative discomfort and promote faster healing.

Apicoectomy Treatment Process
Anesthesia and Sedation
After numbing the area with local anesthesia, we administer sedation to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Anti-inflammatory medication is given to minimize postoperative discomfort.
Accessing the Root Tip
A small incision is made in the gum tissue to access the infected root tip. The endodontist uses a dental operating microscope for enhanced precision.
Removal & Sealing
The infected tissue is removed, and the root tip is reshaped and sealed to prevent future infection. The incision is then sutured closed to promote healing.
Have Questions?
Thanks to modern anesthesia and sedation techniques, most patients experience no pain during the procedure. Post-operative pain is usually manageable with prescribed medication and cold compresses. At Relieve Root Canal Specialists, we prioritize your comfort and take steps to minimize pain and promote healing throughout the treatment process.
Recovery time after an apicoectomy varies depending on the individual, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days. Mild discomfort and swelling are common but can be managed with prescribed pain medication and cold compresses. Stiches are typically removed after 1 week, and complete healing of the gums occurs between 2-4 weeks. Complete healing of the bone around the root tip may take several months, which is just the normal healing process of the body.
Ready to get started?
Don't let dental pain control your life. Contact Relieve Root Canal Specialists today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.
