Advanced Apicectomy with CBCT Scans for West Finchley Patients

An apicectomy is usually the final step to save a natural tooth. It is needed when an infection remains after a previous root canal. Signs include ongoing pain, swelling near the tooth, or a recurring bump on the gum that looks like a pimple, called a sinus tract. This happens often with a complex root system, a small missed canal, or a cyst at the root tip that standard treatment could not resolve. The goal is to access the root tip, remove infected tissue, and seal the end of the root to prevent reinfection. It serves as a strong alternative to tooth extraction.

A standard dental X-ray is 2D and can miss details. A CBCT scan gives a detailed 3D view of the tooth, jawbone, and nearby nerves, which is essential for planning. It shows the exact shape and number of root canals, the extent of the infection, and any hidden fractures. This clarity reduces guesswork and surgical risks and raises the success rate, usually above 90 percent with CBCT planning. For example, a CBCT helped a West Finchley patient by revealing a fourth canal in a molar that caused a persistent infection, guiding precise surgery.

Your treatment is planned carefully. The consultation, including the CBCT, confirms that an apicectomy is the right choice and lasts about an hour. The surgery itself takes about 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic, so there is pressure but no pain. Then a small gum incision provides access to the infected root tip. The infected tissue and the end of the root are removed. The root canal is sealed with a biocompatible filling, and the gum is stitched closed. We schedule a 7 to 10 day follow-up to check healing and remove the stitches.

Aftercare supports a smooth recovery. In the first two days expect some swelling and mild to moderate discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen, helps. Use an ice pack on the cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off on the first day. Eat soft foods like soups, yogurt, and smoothies for a few days and avoid chewing on the operated side. Rinse gently with warm salt water after 24 hours. Initial healing takes about a week; full bone healing can take months. Red flags requiring immediate contact: Reach our practice at 0203 488 0335 during office hours (Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5; Tue, Thu 11 to 7) if you have severe or increasing pain after day 3, heavy bleeding, or a fever above 38 C. For emergencies outside these hours go to A&E or call 111.

While an apicectomy is highly effective, it helps to understand other options. Root canal retreatment is possible in some cases when the initial treatment was compromised, but is not possible if a large post remains in the tooth. Tooth extraction removes the infection by removing the tooth. This is simpler at first but creates a gap that needs a replacement such as a dental implant or bridge to restore function and prevent shifting of other teeth. An implant requires a substantial long-term financial and time commitment. We discuss which option suits your clinical situation at the consultation.

To make an informed choice about treatment with us or another London practice, consider these questions: Do you plan all apicectomy procedures with a 3D CBCT scan? What is your success rate for this surgery? Will you use a dental operating microscope for precision? What are the total costs, including the scan, surgery, and follow-up visits? What risks relate to my tooth's location? If surgery fails, what is the next step? Do you accept private dental insurance such as Denplan or Cigna?