Meet your clinician
Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
FDSRCS (Eng), MBBS (Lon), MRCS (Eng), FRCS (Eng) OMFS
GMC No. 6143043
GDC No. 81791
ICO No. ZA130574
Ash Gulati is appointed as Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at the renowned Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, with a specialist interest in head & neck oncology and reconstruction. He is amongst a select group of dually qualified surgeons in the country holding both dental (1996) and medical (2006) qualifications. He completed his higher surgical training in the South Coast of England and was subsequently selected for the coveted Head & Neck Interface Fellowship.
An apicectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves removing the tip (apex) of a tooth’s root, usually following an unsuccessful root canal treatment. The procedure is typically carried out by a specialist when infection or inflammation persists in the bone surrounding the root, and when a standard root canal alone isn’t enough to resolve the issue.
Here is what you can expect from an apicectomy appointment:
- You will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area and ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.
- A small incision will be made in the gum near the affected tooth to access the root tip and surrounding infected tissue, which will be carefully removed.
- The end of the root may be sealed with a small filling to help prevent reinfection, and the gum will then be stitched back into place.
- Stitches are usually removed within a week, and most people return to normal activities shortly after treatment.
Life Benefits.
- Relief from ongoing pain and infection that hasn’t responded to root canal treatment.
- A chance to save your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction.
- Restoration of comfort and function so you can eat and speak as normal.
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need an apicectomy?
An apicectomy is usually needed when a previous root canal treatment hasn’t fully cleared an infection, or when the anatomy of the root makes retreatment difficult. If left untreated, infection in the bone around the root tip can cause swelling, pain, or an abscess. An apicectomy helps to clean out the problem area without removing the tooth.
Is an apicectomy painful?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during treatment. You may have some swelling or soreness afterwards, which is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Your dentist or specialist will provide aftercare instructions to help with healing.
What’s the difference between a root canal and an apicectomy?
A root canal treats infection from inside the tooth, while an apicectomy removes infection from the tip of the root, accessed through the gum. It’s usually considered when root canal treatment hasn’t been successful or can’t be repeated.
How should I care for my mouth after an apicectomy?
Keep the area clean and avoid brushing directly over the stitches for the first few days. Rinsing gently with warm salt water can help soothe the area and keep it clean. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until it’s fully healed, and follow any specific advice your dentist gives you.
Will I need any time off after treatment?
Most people are able to return to work or normal daily activities within a day or two, although it’s best to rest for the remainder of the day after surgery. Your dentist will advise you based on your individual recovery.