Precision Root Canal Treatment in Finchley with 3D Imaging

You may be a candidate for 3D guided root canal treatment if you have symptoms such as a severe persistent toothache, very hot or cold sensitivity, or a pimple like bump on the gum. This approach is especially helpful in certain situations. If a previous root canal has failed, a 3D scan can pinpoint the exact cause, such as a hidden or missed canal. It is also the standard for teeth with unusual anatomy, like curved roots or extra canals, which are common in molars. We often recommend a CBCT scan for patients from Finchley and North London who have unexplained pain not diagnosed by conventional X-rays, as it can reveal tiny fractures or complex infection patterns.

The process starts with a 60 minute consultation. First we take a high resolution 3D CBCT scan of the affected tooth, which takes less than a minute. This scan maps your root canal system in detail before treatment begins. Next, during the treatment appointment which typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes, we provide local anaesthetic so you feel no pain. Dr. Reddy then uses a dental operating microscope with up to 25x magnification to navigate, clean, and seal the root canals precisely according to the 3D plan. A patient from Barnet recently had a molar with a rare fifth canal; the scan identified it beforehand, allowing treatment in a single visit and a high success rate for complex cases.

After your treatment you may have mild tenderness for 2 to 3 days, which is easily managed with over the counter pain relief like ibuprofen. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent crown is placed by your general dentist. You can brush and floss as normal, just be gentle around the area. Long term, a tooth that has had root canal treatment needs a crown to protect it from fracture. Care for it as you would any other tooth. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice if you experience severe increasing pain after day 3, visible swelling that spreads to your face, or a fever above 38C during office hours Mon Wed Fri 9 to 5 and Tue Thu 11 to 7. For out of hours emergencies, please visit your local A&E or call NHS 111.

The main alternative to saving a tooth with root canal treatment is extraction. While sometimes necessary if a tooth is truly non restorable, we always aim to save natural teeth where possible in line with our practice philosophy. After extraction you would need a replacement such as a dental implant or a bridge. A dental implant is a permanent solution but involves a surgical procedure and a higher cost from £2,500 plus crown. A bridge is quicker but requires grinding down the adjacent healthy teeth for support. In most cases a successful root canal treatment is the most conservative and cost effective long term solution.

To choose what is right for you, ask the right questions whether you consult with us or another practice in the Finchley area. Here is what we suggest: 1. Do you use a dental operating microscope for every root canal procedure? 2. What is your success rate for molars, and how does that compare to front teeth? 3. Do you use 3D CBCT scanning to plan complex cases? 4. What are the full costs including the scan and the final restoration? 5. What postgraduate qualifications or specific endodontic training do you have? 6. What happens if the treatment fails and what are the next steps and costs?

As a private practice limited to endodontics, we provide transparent pricing. The cost for root canal treatment depends on the complexity and location of the tooth. For example, a front tooth is less complex than a molar. All our fees include the use of our advanced technology including the 3D CBCT scan and the operating microscope, so there are no hidden charges for a higher standard of care. We are private only and do not offer NHS services. However, we do accept patients with private dental insurance plans from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. A full personalised quote will be provided at your consultation.