HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What does an apicoectomy involve?

1. Trimming the crown of the tooth

2. Excision of the apical portion of the tooth root

3. Filling a root canal

4. Performing a routine cleaning

The correct answer is: Excision of the apical portion of the tooth root

An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure that specifically involves the excision of the apical portion of the tooth root. This procedure is often performed when conventional root canal treatment has failed or when there is persistent infection or inflammation at the root tip. By removing the apical portion, the dentist aims to eliminate the source of infection and promote healing in the surrounding area. This targeted approach allows for effective management of complex dental issues that may not respond well to traditional methods. Understanding the role of an apicoectomy is essential for recognizing when surgical intervention is necessary in dental care, particularly in cases involving root canal complications. This contrasts sharply with other dental procedures like filling a root canal or performing a routine cleaning, which serve different purposes in dental health management.