Advanced Apicoectomy with 3D CBCT Scans in Finchley

An apicoectomy is not a first line treatment but a necessary surgical step in specific cases. You would need this procedure if a conventional root canal has failed and retreatment cannot be performed or has not resolved the issue. It is commonly chosen when there is a persistent infection or inflammation at the tip of the tooth root. This can occur if tiny, complex canal branches could not be cleaned during the initial treatment. A 3D CBCT scan at our Finchley area practice confirms whether an apicoectomy is the right choice, especially if a post or crown on the tooth makes traditional retreatment difficult or risky. The procedure aims to remove the infected root tip and seal the end to prevent future problems.

The process is planned with care. First, you will have a 45 minute consultation, during which a 3D CBCT scan is used to create a detailed map of your tooth’s root structure. This map guides the surgery. The apicoectomy itself is done under local anaesthetic and typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy will make a small incision in the gum to reach the infected root tip. With the help of a dental operating microscope for magnification, he will remove the infected tissue and the very end of the root. The root end is sealed with a small filling to prevent reinfection, and the gum is stitched. You will return for a follow up in 7 to 10 days to check healing and remove the stitches. Complete bone healing can take several months, but you will be comfortable well before then.

A patient from Finchley was referred for persistent pain a year after a root canal. A standard x-ray did not show the problem. Our 3D CBCT scan revealed a tiny fourth canal in the molar that had not been treated and was harboring bacteria. An apicoectomy allowed direct access to that canal from the root end and sealing it, resolving the infection without disturbing the new crown. This is a typical example of how CBCT imaging helps achieve a successful outcome.

Your recovery is a priority. During the first 24 to 48 hours you will likely have swelling and mild discomfort, which you can manage with over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen. An ice pack applied to the area for 20 minutes at a time helps reduce swelling. Eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies for the first few days and avoid chewing on the surgical side. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting to protect the blood clot. You can gently brush your other teeth, but stay away from the surgical site until your follow up. Most people return to normal activities within two to three days. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice if you have increasing pain after day three, a fever above 38°C, or uncontrolled bleeding during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). For out of hours emergencies, visit A&E or call 111.

A high success rate is typical for an apicoectomy with modern techniques, but you should know other options. Non surgical retreatment is often the first choice if possible, but it is not always feasible if there is a large post or a complex crown in place. Extraction and a dental implant is another option, with a bridge or denture as alternatives. Our philosophy is to save your natural tooth when possible, and an apicoectomy is the best way to achieve that.

To decide what suits you, ask these questions during your consultation with us or another practice in the Finchley area. You could ask about the procedure’s success rate in the hands of the clinician, whether a 3D CBCT scan is included in the cost and essential for your case, the specific risks related to your tooth, who performs the procedure and their endodontic training, what happens if the apicoectomy does not succeed, and the total cost including consultation, scan, surgery and follow up.

An apicoectomy is a complex surgical procedure and the cost reflects the required skill and technology. The final quote comes after your initial consultation and 3D CBCT scan, as it depends on the tooth’s location and the surgery’s complexity. This ensures a transparent price with no hidden fees. Our practice is private and does not offer NHS services. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Denplan and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your consultation so we can clarify coverage.