Apicoectomy Costs and Procedure in Finchley Central

An apicoectomy is usually needed when a standard root canal fails and retreatment cannot fix the problem. You might need it if inflammation or infection remains near the root tip after a root canal. Causes include complex root anatomy with tiny canals that were hard to clean, a cyst at the root tip, or a fractured root. A 3D CBCT scan from our Finchley clinic helps us diagnose these issues precisely. For example, a patient from Finchley Central had a persistent abscess on a molar with a large post; retreatment was not possible. The apicoectomy cleared the infection while preserving the tooth crown.

Pricing starts at £950. We provide a clear cost breakdown at your consultation with no hidden fees. The price covers the surgical procedure performed by an endodontist, use of a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT for diagnosis and planning, local anaesthetic, and all follow-up visits to monitor healing. If a tissue biopsy is required, there may be an extra laboratory charge. We accept private insurers such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna and can explain coverage before treatment.

Under local anaesthetic, a small gum incision exposes the bone near the tooth. A window is made in the bone at the root tip. The infected tissue and the end of the root tip are removed. Ultrasonic instruments clean and seal the end of the root canal with a tiny filling. The gum is closed with sutures. The procedure usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the tooth. The surrounding bone heals around the root over the coming months.

Recovery is usually manageable. Expect swelling and mild discomfort for 2 to 3 days, controlled with over the counter anti inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen. Apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes on, 20 off in the first 24 hours to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods for a few days and avoid chewing on the operated side. Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours. Most patients return to work the next day. Call our office during hours if you have severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or fever. For emergencies after hours, call 111 or go to the nearest A&E.

Besides apicoectomy you may face tooth extraction. If you extract, you may replace the tooth with an implant, a fixed bridge, or a partial denture. An implant is long lasting but takes more time and costs from around £2,500. A bridge is faster but requires preparing adjacent teeth. A denture is cheaper but removable and less stable. In some cases a non surgical root canal retreatment may work, but you often choose an apicoectomy when retreatment is unlikely to succeed. We will discuss the pros and cons for your situation.

To make an informed choice, ask questions whether you consult with us or another North London practice. Consider asking: What is your success rate with this procedure? Modern techniques yield success rates over 90 percent. What technology do you use, like a microscope or CBCT? Does the quoted price include the initial consultation and all follow up visits? What risks or complications could apply to my case? How much experience do you have with this procedure? A recent patient with a failing root canal on a front tooth chose us for an apicoectomy, saving her tooth and veneer, which shows the value of this specialised care.