Advanced Root Canal Treatment for North Finchley Patients

Some root canal cases are straightforward, but others need a higher level of care. Seek this option if your general dentist has referred you or you have ongoing pain after a previous root canal or a complex infection. It is helpful when the tooth has very narrow or curved canals or if a crack in the root is suspected. For example, a North Finchley patient was sent to us for retreatment of a molar that stayed painful six months after an earlier procedure. Our 3D CBCT image showed an untreated fourth canal, which we cleaned and sealed using a microscope, ending the discomfort.

Our approach focuses on precision and comfort. First you have a 45 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth. Then the treatment itself usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic. Dr. Reddy uses a dental operating microscope with up to 25 times magnification to access and clean the infected pulp from the canals. After thorough disinfection the canals are filled with gutta-percha and sealed. A temporary filling is placed. You will then return to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the tooth long term.

After treatment you may feel mild tenderness for 2 to 3 days. Over the counter pain relief like ibuprofen can help. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration is placed. You can brush and floss normally but be gentle around the area. With good hygiene and a crown, a root canal treated tooth can last a lifetime. Red flags requiring immediate contact: Call our practice if you have severe increasing pain after day 3, swelling in or around the mouth, or a fever above 38 C during office hours. After hours go to the nearest A and E or call NHS 111.

We aim to save the natural tooth, but that isn't always possible. The main alternative is extraction. Removing the tooth stops infection and pain but creates a gap that can cause teeth to shift and jaw bone loss. If extraction is chosen we often replace the tooth with a dental implant or a fixed bridge. Not treating can allow the infection to spread. We will talk through all options at your consultation.

When choosing a provider for complex root canals you should ask a few key questions. Ask if they use a dental operating microscope for root canal procedures. Inquire about their success rate for this type of treatment. Ask about postgraduate endodontic qualifications. Check if they plan the treatment with a 3D CBCT scan. Request a full cost breakdown including consultations and scans. Finally ask what happens if the treatment does not succeed.

Costs depend on complexity and the tooth treated. Molars are more complex than front teeth. After the first consultation and scans we give a clear treatment plan and a full price breakdown with no hidden fees. We are a private practice and do not offer NHS treatment. We accept private insurance from providers such as Max Bupa, Denplan and Cigna. Please bring your policy details to your appointment so we can help with claims.