Apicectomy Costs and Procedure for North Finchley Patients

An apicectomy is usually considered after a conventional root canal fails to clear an infection. You might need it if infection remains near the root tip, visible on X-ray even without pain. It is also used when complex root anatomy blocks retreatment, such as a blocked or curved canal. For example, a Finchley patient needed an apicectomy because a persistent cyst at the root tip did not heal after two treatments. The procedure lets us access and resolve the issue, saving the tooth. The British Endodontic Society reports a success rate over 90% with modern techniques.

The process is designed for comfort. First you have a 60-minute consultation. We map the tooth with a 3D CBCT to plan the surgery. The procedure uses local anaesthetic and lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy makes a small gum incision, removes infected tissue, and trims the end of the root. A filling seals the root canal, and the gum closes with stitches. Most patients feel pressure but no pain during the procedure. A follow-up at 5 to 7 days removes the stitches and checks healing. The bone then heals around the root end over the next months.

The cost starts from £950 at our Finchley practice. This reflects the procedure complexity and the advanced technology used, such as the dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning. Our fee includes: a comprehensive initial consultation and assessment, all 3D CBCT scans and digital X-rays, the surgical procedure by Dr. Ashok Reddy MSc Endodontics, and the follow-up appointment for stitch removal. We are private and do not offer NHS services. We accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. You will receive a detailed, personalised quote with no hidden fees during your consultation.

Your recovery is our priority. For the first 24 hours, apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes at a time to minimise swelling and avoid rinsing the mouth. Swelling and mild discomfort are normal and typically peak at 48 to 72 hours, easily managed with ibuprofen. Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days, such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies. Avoid brushing the surgical site until your follow-up appointment, but you can use a saltwater rinse after 24 hours. Red flags requiring immediate contact: increasing pain after day 4, persistent bleeding, or a fever above 38 C during office hours Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5 and Tue, Thu 11 to 7. For out-of-hours emergencies, visit A&E or call 111.

If possible, retreating the original root canal is the first option. This means re-cleaning and resealing the canals from inside the tooth. It is less invasive than surgery, but it may not be possible if there is a post or a blockage in the canal that cannot be bypassed.

The other option is removing the tooth. This is simpler and cheaper at first but leaves a gap that can cause nearby teeth to drift. Replacing with an implant or bridge is a long-term cost, often making saving the natural tooth with an apicectomy the better choice overall. A Muswell Hill patient chose an apicectomy to avoid the look and function issues of a prosthetic replacement.

To make an informed choice, ask these questions of any provider in North London or at our practice. What is your success rate with apicectomies? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT for this procedure? What does your quoted price include and are scans and follow-ups extra? What are the specific risks in my case? Why is a root canal retreatment not suitable for me? What experience does the performing dentist have with this surgery? What are my options if the apicectomy fails?