A tooth root tip is removed through a surgical procedure that involves accessing and extracting the remaining root structure. Here's a breakdown of the process, incorporating information from the provided reference:
The procedure to remove a tooth root tip, also known as an apicoectomy or root-end resection, generally involves the following steps:
- Incision and Exposure: The surgeon begins by making a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth. They then gently lift the gum away from the tooth to expose the underlying root tip.
- Bone Removal (if necessary): "In some cases, a tiny fraction of the jawbone may be removed to properly expose the root." This step isn't always needed, but it can provide better access to the root tip, especially if it's deeply embedded within the bone.
- Root Tip Removal: The edge of the root tip and any surrounding infected tissue are carefully removed. According to the reference, "The edge of the root tip and any infected connective tissue will be removed using ultrasonic instruments." Ultrasonic instruments are often preferred because they allow for precise cutting and removal of tissue with minimal damage to the surrounding areas.
