Definition and Purpose of Apicoectomy - Apicoectomy is a surgical procedure in endodontics. - It involves the removal of the root tip and preparation of a root end cavity. - The cavity is filled with a biocompatible material. - Apicoectomy is performed when conventional root canal therapy fails. - It is an alternative to tooth extraction followed by prosthetic replacement.

Materials Used for Root-End Filling - The materials used for root-end filling must provide a good seal. - They should be biocompatible and stable at body temperature. - Radio-opacity is important for easy identification on radiographs. - Commonly used materials include amalgam, composite resin, and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). - Modified versions of zinc oxide eugenol cement (ZOE) are also used.

Success Rates of Apicoectomy - Reported success rates for apicoectomy vary widely. - A meta-analysis indicated an overall success rate of 85-95% using modern techniques. - Another systematic review suggested success rates of 77.8% at 2-4 years, 71.8% at 4-6 years, and 62.9% at 6+ years. - The likelihood of success is affected by various factors. - Correctly performed apicoectomy can prevent tooth extraction.

Benefits of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) - MTA is a popular root-end filling material. - It absorbs water to form a colloidal gel that solidifies over time. - MTA creates a bactericidal environment and stimulates bone production. - It has shown generally high success rates. - MTA is beneficial for its properties and clinical outcomes.

References - Endodontic Microsurgery. Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry, June 2007. - Endodontists Guide to CDT 2017 (PDF). American Association of Endodontists, 2017. - Analysis of the Cause of Failure in Nonsurgical Endodontic Treatment by Microscopic Inspection during Endodontic Microsurgery. Journal of Endodontics, 2011. - Considerations in the selection of a root-end filling material. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology, 1999. - Root end filling materials - A review (PDF). Endodontology, 2003.