Endodontic microsurgery in Brea

When a root canal alone is not enough, a precise procedure at the tip of the root can still save the tooth. Small incisions, done under the microscope, usually in one visit.

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Illustration of a smiling, relaxed patient reclining in a dental chair under an exam light

What it is

Treating the root from below, when the top cannot be reached

A standard root canal works from the top of the tooth down. Sometimes infection lingers at the very tip of the root, where that approach cannot reach. Microsurgery treats it directly, through a small opening in the gum, while the rest of the tooth stays untouched.

Apicoectomy

The most common procedure. The infected root tip is removed and the end of the root is sealed.

Exploratory surgery

A direct look at the root to find a hidden crack or canal that imaging alone cannot confirm.

When it may be recommended

Infection or a shadow at the root tip that persists after a root canal
A crown, post, or bridge that would be risky or costly to remove
Canals that are blocked, calcified, or too curved to treat from above
Tiny fractures or extra root branches that do not show on standard X-rays
Symptoms that continue even though X-rays look normal

We always consider retreatment first. Surgery is recommended only when it gives the tooth the better chance.

Why choose microsurgery

A precise option before saying goodbye to a tooth

Saves a tooth others might remove

When a root canal cannot be redone from above, microsurgery is often the last way to keep the tooth.

Keeps your existing crown

Treatment happens through the gum, near the root tip, so a good crown or bridge can stay in place.

Small incisions, quick healing

Microscopic instruments mean smaller openings, fewer stitches, and less swelling than traditional surgery.

One visit, in the office

Most procedures take 60 to 90 minutes with local anesthetic. Most people are back at work the next day.

Your visit, step by step

Gentle, precise, and explained before we begin

Step 1: Diagnose

3D imaging shows the shape of the root and the extent of the infection. We explain what we see and the cost before you decide.
Step 2: Numb and access

After thorough numbing, a small opening in the gum gives us direct access to the root tip under the microscope.
Step 3: Remove and seal

We clear the inflamed tissue, remove a few millimetres of the root tip, and seal the end with a biocompatible material.
Step 4: Close and heal

A few fine stitches close the gum. They come out in about a week, and the bone fills in around the root over the following months.

Common questions

What patients ask us most

Is endodontic microsurgery painful?

The area is fully numbed, so you feel pressure rather than pain. Afterwards, most people manage any soreness with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long is recovery?

Expect mild swelling or tenderness for a few days. A cold compress helps. We see you about a week later to remove the stitches and check healing.

Will the tooth still be strong?

Yes. Only a small part of the root tip is removed, and the tooth keeps its normal support from the surrounding bone.

How successful is it?

With modern microsurgical techniques, the large majority of treated teeth heal well. We will give you an honest assessment of your tooth before you decide.

What are the alternatives?

Extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant or bridge. Saving the tooth is usually less involved and keeps your natural bite.

Is it covered by insurance?

Most dental plans cover part of endodontic surgery. We check your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment. See insurance and financing.

Talk it through with us

Told your tooth cannot be saved? Get a specialist's opinion first. We will look at every option with you.