3D-Guided Root-End Surgery (Apicoectomy) in West Finchley

An apicoectomy is a microsurgical procedure used when infection or inflammation remains at the tip of the tooth after a root canal. You might need it if a standard root canal fails or retreatment isn’t possible. It helps when the root has a complex structure or a cyst forms. For example, a patient from West Finchley had a persistent dull ache a year after a root canal. A 3D CBCT scan showed a small untreated canal branch at the root tip causing the issue. The 3D guided apicoectomy cleaned the area directly without disturbing the crown. It is also a good option for teeth with posts and crowns, avoiding removal of costly restorations.

The process is focused on precision. First, you have a 60 minute consultation to map your tooth with our 3D CBCT. This helps plan the surgery. The procedure lasts about 60 to 90 minutes and uses local anaesthetic. We use a dental operating microscope for a clear view. A small gum incision provides access to the root tip. The infected tissue and the end of the root are removed. A small filling seals the canal, and stitches close the gum. You return in about a week to have the stitches removed and to review healing.

Recovery is usually straightforward. In the first 24 to 48 hours you may see swelling and mild discomfort, which you can manage with over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen. An ice pack for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off on day one helps limit swelling. Eat soft foods for a few days and avoid biting the surgical site. Most people are back to normal activities within 2 to 3 days. Long term success rates for modern apicoectomies are very high, often above 90 percent, giving your tooth a strong chance to last for many years. Red flags requiring a call: contact us during office hours if pain increases after day three, if bleeding is heavy, or if you have a fever. For emergencies outside these hours, call 111 or go to the nearest A and E.

Apicoectomy saves the natural tooth, but it is not the only option. The main alternative is tooth extraction, followed by a replacement such as an implant, bridge or partial denture. Extraction is simpler at first, but the replacement may be more involved and costly later. An implant can be a good solution but requires a separate surgery and a healing period of 3 to 6 months. Our aim is to save natural teeth whenever possible, and apicoectomy helps with that. We will discuss all options so you can choose what fits your health and budget.

To help you decide, consider asking these questions of any provider in the West Finchley area: Do you use a 3D CBCT scanner to plan the surgery? Will a dental operating microscope be used during the procedure? What is your success rate for this procedure? What are the total costs, including consultation, scan, surgery and follow up? What are the risks and how do you manage them? Based on my scan, what are the chances of success for my tooth? Do you have postgraduate training in endodontics?

As a private practice we provide advanced care with specialised equipment. The cost reflects the complexity of the procedure and the technology used. At your consultation we will give a clear, itemised treatment plan with no hidden fees. The price covers the initial 3D scan, the procedure, and all follow ups. We accept major private plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details and we will help you understand coverage and claims.