Book Endodontic Care for Tooth Pain in Finchley

Endodontic care, known as root canal treatment, is needed when the soft tissue inside the tooth root canal, the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. You should book an assessment if you have severe toothache, especially when chewing or lying down, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers, a discolored or darkened tooth, or swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. A persistent bump on the gums can signal an abscess that needs prompt attention. Our aim is to save natural teeth, and prompt treatment has a high success rate, typically between 85 and 95 percent.

First, you have a 60 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan. This image shows the root anatomy for accurate diagnosis and planning. Dr. Reddy explains the findings and confirms if root canal treatment is right for you. The treatment usually takes place in one 60 to 90 minute visit. We use a strong local anaesthetic so you feel no pain, only light pressure. The infected pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and disinfected using a dental microscope, and the canals are sealed to prevent reinfection. For example, a patient from North Finchley with an infected molar was treated in one 75 minute visit. The microscope helped us locate and treat a tiny fourth canal that is often missed, ensuring a successful outcome.

Sometimes a previous root canal fails and pain returns months or years later. We often see patients from across North London for retreatment. The process involves carefully removing the old filling, re cleaning the canals, and addressing the new infection. A patient from Highgate was referred for a failing root canal. The 3D scan showed a missed canal, which we could clean and seal, saving a tooth that another dentist suggested extracting. These cases show why advanced training and technology matter.

After treatment, the tooth and surrounding gums may feel tender for two to three days. This is normal and can be managed with over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until tenderness subsides and a permanent filling or crown is in place. Stick to soft foods for the first couple of days. You will need a permanent restoration from your general dentist, such as a crown, to protect the tooth long term. Watch for red flags: severe pain not controlled by painkillers, swelling inside or outside the mouth that worsens after day three, or an allergic reaction to medication. If you notice any of these, call our practice during office hours (Mon, Wed, Fri 9am to 5pm, Tue, Thu 11am to 7pm). For emergencies outside those hours, go to the local A&E or call 111.

The main alternative is tooth extraction. This is sometimes necessary if a tooth is damaged beyond repair. Our philosophy is to save natural teeth whenever possible. If a tooth is removed, you need a replacement to prevent shifting and restore chewing. Replacement options include a dental implant, which replaces the tooth root, or a fixed bridge supported by the adjacent teeth. Each option has different costs, timelines, and benefits we can discuss. Keeping your natural tooth is usually the most effective and cost efficient option in the long run.

To make an informed choice about your care, consider asking these questions of any provider in Finchley: what is your experience with this procedure, do you use dental microscopes and 3D CBCT for diagnosis and treatment, what is the expected success rate for my tooth, will I need a crown after the treatment and is that cost included, what are the costs and do you accept insurance like Denplan or Cigna, and what happens if the treatment fails.

As a private practice, NHS treatment is not offered. Private root canal costs vary with case complexity and which tooth is treated. After your initial consultation and 3D scan, we provide a detailed treatment plan and a full cost breakdown with no hidden fees. We accept private insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team helps you understand your coverage and handles the paperwork. Our aim is transparent pricing for high standard endodontic care.