Complex & Surgical Tooth Extractions in Finchley

A standard extraction removes a tooth that is fully visible and intact. A complex or surgical extraction is needed when a simple removal is not possible. This happens when a tooth is impacted, trapped beneath gum or bone, which is common with wisdom teeth. You might need a surgical extraction if a tooth has broken at the gum line, has curved roots, or sits very close to important structures like nerves or the sinus. Our 3D CBCT scans provide a detailed map to plan the safest approach. For example, a patient from North Finchley had an impacted lower wisdom tooth pressing against a major nerve. The 3D scan let us plan the extraction carefully, removing the tooth in sections to avoid nerve damage.

First, you will have a 45 minute consultation at our Finchley clinic, including the 3D CBCT scan to assess position and root structure. During the treatment appointment, which lasts about 60 to 90 minutes, the area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic so you feel pressure but not pain. Next, a small incision is made in the gum to access the tooth. Sometimes a small amount of bone needs to be removed. The tooth may be divided into smaller pieces for a gentle removal. After all fragments are out, the area is cleaned. Finally the gum is closed with dissolvable stitches that usually dissolve in 7 to 10 days. We provide full aftercare instructions before you leave.

Recovery forms part of the process. In the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort. It is usually managed with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Apply an ice pack to the cheek for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies for several days. Avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, or drinking through a straw to protect the clot. Most healing occurs in the first week. We will schedule a follow-up if needed. Red flags require immediate contact: call our practice at 0203 488 0335 during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) if you have increasing pain after day 3, a fever, persistent bleeding that does not stop with pressure, or a foul taste from the socket. For emergencies after hours, call 111 or go to the nearest A and E.

While extraction is sometimes necessary, we aim to save natural teeth whenever possible. One option is root canal treatment. If a tooth is badly infected but its structure is sound, Dr. Ashok Reddy, who has a postgraduate MSc in Endodontics, can often save it by treating the infection within the root. This avoids extraction and replacement. For impacted wisdom teeth close to a nerve, another option can be a coronectomy, where only the crown of the tooth is removed, leaving the roots safely in place to avoid nerve damage. A fixed bridge or a dental implant are not alternatives to extraction itself, but are options for replacing the tooth after it has been removed. We will discuss all suitable options with you during your consultation.

To make an informed choice about your care, whether with us or another practice in Finchley, you should ask a few key questions. First, ask if they use 3D CBCT scanning for planning complex cases, as this is the gold standard for safety. You should also ask about the clinician's experience with surgical extractions specifically. It's important to get a clear, itemised quote that explains what's included in the fee—does it cover the consultation, scan, procedure, and any follow-up visits? Finally, ask what pain management options are available and what post-operative support they provide. A good clinic will be happy to answer all these questions transparently.

As a private practice, NHS services are not offered. The cost varies based on difficulty, time required, and tooth position. A firm quote comes after a full clinical assessment and review of your 3D scan. This ensures there are no hidden fees. A patient from Muswell Hill recently needed a fractured molar removed that had broken at the gum line. The procedure was complex, but our clear pricing given upfront provided peace of mind. We accept several major private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your consultation so we can explain your coverage.