Book Endodontic Treatment for West Finchley Patients

Endodontic treatment, usually called a root canal, is needed when the soft tissue inside the tooth root, the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. You should book a consultation if you have symptoms such as a severe, persistent toothache, especially when it worsens when you lie down. Other signs include extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers, a discolored or darkened tooth, or tender, swollen gums near a specific tooth. Sometimes a small pimple like bump on the gum appears (an abscess). For patients in West Finchley, prompt assessment helps save the tooth and stop the infection from spreading.

First, you’ll have a 60 minute consultation where we use digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose the problem precisely. The treatment itself is done under local anaesthetic and typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy will remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the inside of the root canals using a dental operating microscope for accuracy, and then fill and seal the space. Most patients feel pressure but no pain. A temporary filling is placed. You’ll then return to your general dentist after a few weeks to have a permanent crown fitted to protect the tooth. The full process, including the final crown, usually takes a few appointments over several weeks. A patient from West Finchley recently came in with a painful molar infection. The root canal was completed in one 90 minute visit, and they were pain free by the next day. Another case involved retreatment of a failed root canal from another practice. Using our CBCT scanner, we identified a missed canal, which was then cleaned and sealed, saving a tooth that was scheduled for extraction.

After your root canal treatment, it is normal to feel some tenderness and sensitivity for 2 to 3 days. This can be managed with over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until you have your permanent crown fitted. For the first 24 hours, stick to soft foods. You can brush your teeth as normal but be gentle around the treated area. Schedule the follow up appointment for your final crown, as the temporary filling is not a long term solution. A crowned, root treated tooth can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene. Red flags requiring immediate contact include severe pain not controlled by painkillers, visible swelling inside or outside the mouth, or an allergic reaction to medication during office hours. Office hours are Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5 and Tue, Thu 11 to 7. For out of hours emergencies, call 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

The main alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction. Removing the tooth resolves the infection but can lead to other problems such as neighbouring teeth shifting, difficulties with chewing, and bone loss in the jaw. The missing tooth would then need to be replaced with a dental implant or a bridge, which can be more complex and costly. Our philosophy is to save natural teeth whenever possible. A root canal has an 85 to 95 percent success rate and allows you to keep your own tooth. During your consultation, we’ll explain why we believe endodontic treatment is the best option for your long term dental health and discuss the pros and cons of all alternatives.

To make an informed choice, here are key questions to ask any provider whether it is us or another practice serving the West Finchley area. Start by asking about experience with complex cases and whether they use a dental microscope. Ask what the total cost includes and if the final crown is a separate fee. Inquire about the expected success rate for your specific tooth and what the procedure will feel like. Finally, ask what happens if the treatment fails and what long term care is needed after the procedure.

As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatment. The cost of private endodontic care reflects the advanced technology and expertise required. During your consultation, we provide a full, transparent breakdown of all fees with no hidden costs. The price includes the detailed assessment, 3D CBCT scan, the procedure itself, and all immediate follow up care. The final crown fitted by your general dentist is a separate cost. We accept private dental insurance plans from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team will be happy to assist you with any insurance paperwork.