3D-Guided Apicectomy for Patients in West Finchley

An apicectomy, or root-end surgery, is not a first line treatment. It is recommended when a conventional root canal treatment hasn't worked or isn't possible. You are a candidate if infection persists on x-ray months after the initial treatment, or if you have ongoing symptoms such as a dull ache or gum swelling around the treated tooth. It's also an excellent option for teeth with crowns or posts, as it allows us to treat the infection without damaging expensive restorative work. The primary goal is to remove infected tissue from the root tip and seal the canal to prevent any further issues, saving a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

First, you'll have a 60-minute consultation with a 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography scan. This scan gives a detailed, three-dimensional view of your tooth's root structure, the infection, and nearby nerves. This precision planning is the 3D guided part and is essential for safety and success. The procedure itself typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. You receive a local anaesthetic to numb the area. Dr. Reddy, who holds an MSc in Endodontics, will make a small incision in the gum to access the root tip. Using a dental operating microscope for high magnification, the infected tip is removed, and the end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible filling. Finally, the gum is stitched back into place. Most patients feel pressure, not pain.

Recovery from an apicectomy is generally straightforward. For the first 24 to 48 hours, you can expect some swelling and minor discomfort. We'll provide you with specific aftercare instructions. It's best to apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, to manage swelling, which typically peaks around day two. You should stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the surgical side for a few days. Most discomfort is manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Your stitches will either dissolve or be removed after about one week. Red flags—call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7): persistent bleeding, increasing pain after day 3, or a fever above 38 Celsius. For out-of-hours emergencies, please visit A&E or call 111.

While an apicectomy is highly effective, it's important to know your options. One alternative is non-surgical retreatment of the original root canal, which involves removing the old filling, re-cleaning the canals, and sealing them again. This is suitable if the initial treatment was compromised. The other main alternative is tooth extraction. While this removes the infection completely, it creates a gap that can lead to other dental problems. The space would then need to be restored with a dental implant, bridge, or denture, which involves additional time and expense. We always aim to save your natural teeth where possible, and we'll discuss which option is best for your specific clinical situation.

To help you choose, consider these questions for any provider in Finchley or North London. Start with experience with this procedure and the technology used, such as microscopes and 3D imaging. Ask about the success rate; modern microsurgical apicectomies run around 90 to 95 percent. Get a clear breakdown of costs, including the CBCT scan, the surgery, and follow-up visits. Finally ask about the recovery and what signs would require contact after surgery.

As a complex micro surgical procedure, the cost of a 3D guided apicectomy reflects the advanced technology and expertise. Prices start from £850, depending on the complexity and location of the tooth. This fee covers the initial 3D CBCT scan, the surgical procedure itself, and any necessary follow-up appointments. There are no hidden fees. Our practice is private and does not offer NHS services. We do accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. We recommend contacting your provider to understand the extent of your coverage for endodontic surgery. We can provide you with all the necessary documentation for your claim.