Expert Endodontic Surgery in North London

Endodontic surgery, usually an apicoectomy, is not a first option. It is considered when a standard root canal cannot resolve an infection. You might be a candidate if inflammation or infection persists after a root canal, often showing as a small gum bump or a dull ache. It is also needed when a cyst forms at the root tip or when root anatomy is unusually complex and blocks access for conventional treatment. A 3D CBCT scan at our Finchley practice helps us decide if this surgical approach is the best option for you.

The procedure is careful and aimed at your comfort. It begins with a 60 minute consultation that includes a 3D CBCT scan to map the root and infection. The surgery itself lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy will numb the area with local anaesthetic. A small incision in the gum gives access to the root tip. Under a dental operating microscope, the infected tissue and the end of the root are removed. A tiny filling seals the root, and the gum is closed with stitches. A follow up is scheduled a few weeks later to check healing.

A patient from Highgate presented with a persistent low grade ache from a tooth treated years earlier. A standard X‑ray was inconclusive, but a 3D CBCT scan showed a small hidden cyst at the root tip. An apicoectomy was performed using a microscope to ensure all infected tissue was removed. The patient reported full relief within a week and a one year follow up showed the bone had fully healed.

Post operative care is essential for healing. In the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort that is manageable with over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 20 minute intervals. Eat soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting. Most patients return to work within a day or two. The stitches dissolve on their own in about two weeks. Call our practice during office hours if you have severe pain not controlled by painkillers, heavy bleeding, or a fever above 38 C. For emergencies outside these hours, go to A&E or dial 111.

An apicoectomy is often the last effort to save a tooth. There are alternatives we discuss with you. One option is non surgical root canal retreatment, which means redoing the original root canal. This may suit if the initial treatment was compromised and has a solid success rate. The other main option is tooth extraction followed by a replacement such as a dental implant or bridge. While an implant can be very effective long term, our approach always aims to preserve your natural tooth when a good result is possible.

A patient from Barnet had a lower molar with very curved roots, making a conventional retreatment impossible. The alternative was extraction, but the patient wished to save the tooth. We performed an apicoectomy to access and seal the root tips directly. The procedure saved the tooth and preserved the patient’s bite.

To make an informed choice about your care whether with us or another practice in North London, consider these questions. Inquire about the success rate for the specific tooth, noting that front teeth tend to show higher success than molars. Ask what technology is used, specifically if they use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning, as these are crucial for precision. Get a clear breakdown of the cost, including the consultation, scans, surgery, and all follow‑ups. Finally ask about the clinician’s experience and how many of these procedures they perform each year.

As a specialist procedure, the price of endodontic surgery is given after a full consultation and assessment with our 3D CBCT scanner. This ensures an accurate quote tailored to the case complexity with no hidden fees. We are a fully private practice and do not offer NHS services. We accept several private dental insurance plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to the consultation and our team will help with any paperwork and confirm coverage.