CBCT Guided Root-End Surgery in East Finchley (Apicoectomy)

An apicoectomy is usually the last effort to save a natural tooth. Consider this treatment if a prior root canal failed to heal and retreatment is not advised or has also failed. It fits when infection, a cyst, or inflammation remains at the root tip and shows on an x-ray or CBCT. Many patients near Finchley Central are referred for this procedure because it requires advanced equipment and training, such as dental operating microscopes, to achieve high success. It also works when anatomical issues like a narrow or blocked canal prevent full effectiveness of a traditional root canal.

First, you have a consultation with a high-resolution 3D CBCT to map the tooth's root, nearby nerves, and the extent of the infection. The surgery usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes. We ensure numbness with local anaesthetic. Then a small gum incision is made to access bone and the root tip. The end of the root is removed along with infected tissue. Using the dental operating microscope for magnification, we clean and seal the root tip with a small filling. Finally, stitches close the site to aid healing. This microsurgical approach shows success rates above 90 percent for saving the tooth.

Your comfort and healing are the focus after surgery. For the first 24-48 hours expect swelling and mild discomfort. An ice pack for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off helps reduce swelling. Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, and smoothies for a few days and avoid chewing on the operated side. Most people manage pain with over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen. Avoid strenuous activity for 2-3 days. Stitches are usually removed after about a week. Red flags requiring a call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) include severe pain not controlled by meds, heavy or lasting bleeding, or a fever. For emergencies outside hours contact NHS 111 or go to the nearest A&E.

While the procedure works well, there are alternatives. The main one is tooth extraction. After removal, you would need a replacement to prevent shifting and restore function. Options include a dental implant or a fixed dental bridge. Both are solid choices, but our aim is to save natural teeth whenever possible. At your consultation, Dr. Reddy will outline the pros and cons for your situation to help you decide based on health goals and budget.

To ensure you receive good care at our East Finchley practice or elsewhere, consider these questions: How many root-end surgeries do you perform each year? Do you use a 3D CBCT scanner for planning and a dental microscope during the surgery? What is your personal success rate with this procedure? What does the quoted cost include, and does it cover the CBCT scan and follow-up visits? What are the specific risks in my case based on the tooth location? If the surgery fails, what are the next steps and costs?

Root-end surgery is a complex microsurgical procedure and the price reflects the advanced technology and training required. A final price is given after a full consultation and analysis of your 3D CBCT. The fee includes the initial assessment, all scans, the procedure, and follow-up visits. We provide clear pricing with no hidden charges. We are a private practice and accept private dental insurance, including policies from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact our office for help understanding your coverage and for a detailed treatment plan and estimate.