Advanced Endodontic Surgery with CBCT near West Finchley

Endodontic surgery, often an apicoectomy or root end surgery, is not a first line treatment. It becomes the best option when a conventional root canal is not enough. A CBCT scan provides a 3D view, unlike the flat 2D image from a normal X-ray. We recommend this approach if you have persistent inflammation or infection after a root canal, if we suspect a tiny fracture or a hidden canal causing problems, or if there is damaged root surface or surrounding bone. The 3D image allows Dr. Reddy, who holds an MSc in Endodontics, to plan the surgery with pinpoint accuracy, avoiding nerves and sinuses. For example, a patient from West Finchley recently presented with a dull ache months after treatment elsewhere. A standard X-ray showed nothing, but our CBCT scan revealed a fourth untreated canal in the molar, which we then successfully treated with surgery.

The process is meticulous and planned for your comfort. First, you have a 45 minute consultation, including the CBCT scan itself, which takes less than a minute. Using this detailed 3D image, we map out the entire surgical plan. The surgery itself typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. We will ensure the area is completely numb with local anaesthetic, so you feel pressure but no pain. A small incision is made in the gum to access the infected root tip, which is then removed along with the infected tissue. The end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed. Finally, the gum is stitched back into place. You return for a follow up appointment 7 to 10 days later to check healing and remove the sutures. The entire process from scan to final check up is handled with the utmost care at our Finchley practice.

Your recovery is our priority. For the first 24 to 48 hours, you may notice some swelling and mild discomfort, usually manageable with over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen. Apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to reduce swelling. Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, and smoothies for a few days and avoid chewing on the treated side. Avoid vigorous rinsing or exercise for the first 48 hours. Most patients feel back to normal within a week. Red flags during office hours are increasing pain after day 3, persistent bleeding, a high temperature, or excessive swelling. For genuine emergencies outside these hours, call 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

While CBCT guided surgery has a very high success rate often over 90 percent, it is important to know your options. The main alternative is tooth extraction, followed by an implant, bridge, or partial denture. An implant is a permanent robust solution but involves a longer treatment timeline and higher initial cost. A bridge is quicker but requires grinding down adjacent healthy teeth for support. A non surgical root canal retreatment may be possible, but surgery is often recommended when retreatment has already failed or is unlikely to succeed due to complex anatomy revealed by the CBCT scan. We will always discuss the pros and cons of each path with you.

To help you decide, here are key questions to ask whether you are consulting with us or another practice in the West Finchley area. You might want to ask why surgery is a better option than another retreatment, what specific information the CBCT scan provides that a regular X-ray cannot show, the success rate for this surgery, what the quoted cost covers including the CBCT scan, the surgery, and follow up visits, the risks involved especially near nerves or sinuses, and who will perform the surgery along with their qualifications in endodontics.

The cost depends on the complexity of the case and which tooth is affected. A precise fixed quote is provided after your initial consultation and CBCT scan, with no hidden fees. The fee covers the 3D scan, the surgical procedure, and any necessary follow up appointments. As a private practice we do not offer NHS treatment. We do accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team helps you understand your coverage and provides all necessary documentation for your claim. We believe in transparency so you can decide with all the facts.