Advanced Root Canal Treatment in Finchley

You should seek an assessment for root canal treatment if you have symptoms that point to an infected tooth pulp. These include a severe, persistent toothache that gets worse when you lie down, or strong sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts after the food or drink is gone. Other signs are a discolored tooth, tender or swollen gums near a specific tooth, or a small bump on the gum that may be an abscess. Advanced care is often needed for teeth with complex root systems, such as molars, or if a previous root canal has failed and needs retreatment. Our practice is equipped to handle these challenging cases.

The process starts with a 60 minute consultation where we use digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose the issue accurately. The actual treatment is scheduled next and usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area completely with local anaesthetic so you feel no pain. Then we access the inside of the tooth, remove the infected tissue, and clean the root canals with magnification from a dental microscope. After cleaning, the canals are filled and sealed, and a temporary filling is placed. You will return to your general dentist a few weeks later for a permanent crown to protect the tooth long term. Our aim is to save the tooth, with a success rate above 90 percent, when possible.

A patient from Muswell Hill came in with a failing root canal on a molar. We found a small missed canal with our CBCT scanner. Retreating took about 90 minutes under the microscope, and the pain was gone within 48 hours. In another case, a Finchley patient had strong pain in a front tooth. The procedure lasted just over an hour, and after the permanent crown was placed, the tooth looked and felt natural, blending with the rest of their teeth.

For the first 24 to 48 hours you may feel some tenderness as the anaesthetic wears off. Over the counter pain relief like ibuprofen can help. The tooth may feel different at first but this passes. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the crown is in place. You can brush and floss normally, but be gentle around the area. Most people can return to work the next day. Red flags that require immediate contact include severe, worsening pain after day three, swelling inside or outside the mouth, an allergic reaction to medication, or a loose temporary filling. Call us during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9am-5pm, Tue/Thu 11am-7pm). For emergencies outside these hours, call 111 or go to the nearest A&E.

The main alternative is extracting the tooth. While this removes the infection, it can cause neighbouring teeth to shift, bite problems, and bone loss. After extraction, you would need a replacement such as a dental implant or a bridge. A dental implant is a lasting option but involves surgery and higher upfront costs (from £2,500 plus crown). A bridge is quicker and cheaper initially but requires grinding down adjacent healthy teeth. Our goal is to save the natural tooth whenever possible, as this tends to be the best long-term choice for your oral health.

To help you make an informed choice about your care, here are essential questions to ask any provider, whether it is us or another practice in Finchley: 1. Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning for diagnosis and treatment? 2. What is your success rate with this procedure? 3. How many appointments will the treatment require? 4. What is the total cost, including the consultation, treatment, and follow-up? 5. Will I need a crown after the treatment, and is that cost included? 6. What are the risks if I choose not to have the treatment? 7. Who performs the treatment and what are their qualifications in endodontics?

As a private practice, we do not offer NHS services. The cost of root canal treatment depends on the complexity and which tooth is affected. We will provide you with a clear, itemised treatment plan with no hidden fees after your initial consultation and diagnosis. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment so we can help you understand your coverage and process your claim. Our goal is to provide transparent pricing for the highest standard of endodontic care.