Emergency Oral Surgery & Extractions in North London

It's important to know when you should seek urgent help. Emergency oral surgery is needed for conditions that do not wait for a routine appointment. Call us for a same-day assessment if you have severe persistent toothache not relieved by painkillers, significant facial swelling around the jaw, cheek, or gums indicating a possible infection or abscess, uncontrolled bleeding after an extraction or dental injury, or a traumatic tooth injury such as a fracture extending below the gum line. For example, a patient from Highgate called with intense pain and swelling. We saw him the same day, and a CBCT scan showed a severe abscess at the root of a molar. We performed an emergency surgical extraction and drainage, providing immediate relief. For severe swelling that blocks breathing or swallowing, go directly to A&E.

On arrival for an emergency appointment, our first priority is your comfort and safety. About 30 minutes are spent on a thorough assessment, including digital X-rays or a 3D CBCT scan to get a precise diagnosis. This technology helps plan the procedure safely. Next, Dr. Reddy explains the findings and discusses treatment options. If a surgical extraction or another procedure is needed, local anaesthetic is used to numb the area. The procedure itself usually lasts 45 to 75 minutes depending on its complexity. Finally, we provide detailed aftercare instructions and any prescriptions needed to support a smooth recovery. You leave with a clear plan for managing recovery at home.

This is the most critical period for healing. You will likely feel discomfort and swelling. Use prescribed painkillers as directed and apply an ice pack to your cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off to control swelling. Eat soft foods such as soup, yoghurt, and smoothies. Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, and smoking, as these slow the formation of a blood clot which is essential for healing. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean.

While some discomfort is normal, certain symptoms require attention. Call our practice immediately during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9am-5pm, Tue/Thu 11am-7pm) if you experience: pain that worsens after day 3; bleeding that won’t stop with gentle pressure; a fever or feeling unwell; pus or a foul taste coming from the surgical site. For emergencies outside opening hours, visit the nearest A&E or call NHS 111 for advice.

Our goal is to save natural teeth whenever possible. A severe infection or fracture might make extraction the only option, but alternatives exist. If the tooth nerve is infected but the root structure remains sound, root canal treatment may restore the tooth. This procedure, done with a dental microscope, cleans the infection from inside the tooth, preserving it. A recent patient from Golders Green faced severe pain and thought extraction was needed. The assessment showed the tooth was restorable; a root canal saved the tooth, avoiding an implant or bridge. We discuss all feasible options during the emergency assessment.

We are a fully private practice and do not offer NHS services. The cost of an emergency assessment, including any necessary X-rays, is quoted when you book. The price for emergency oral surgery or a surgical extraction depends on case complexity. We provide a full, transparent breakdown before any treatment starts, with no hidden fees. We accept private dental insurance plans such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Tell our team if you have cover so we can help with the necessary paperwork.

To make an informed choice about emergency care, whether you see us or another practice in North London, ask these questions: what is the full cost of the assessment and the proposed surgery; what technology, like 3D scanning, is used to diagnose the problem; what are the risks and what are the alternatives; who will perform the surgery and what is their experience with complex cases; what aftercare support is offered and who to contact if problems arise outside office hours.