CBCT-Guided Root-End Surgery in Finchley

Root-end surgery is a small operation to treat an infection at the tip of a tooth root. It is usually needed when a standard root canal has not resolved the issue. The procedure involves a small gum incision to reach the root tip, removal of infected tissue and the end of the root, and sealing the canal with a filling. The CBCT guided part helps make modern apicoectomies effective. A CBCT scan provides a detailed 3D map, allowing Dr. Reddy, who has an MSc in Endodontics, to plan the surgery precisely, avoid nerves and sinuses, and ensure all infected tissue is removed. For example, a Finchley patient had a persistent infection on an upper molar. The CBCT scan revealed a tiny hidden canal that was missed in the original treatment, allowing targeted treatment during surgery. Another patient from Barnet had a cyst near a major nerve; the 3D scan was essential for planning a safe procedure that resolved the problem without complications. The British Endodontic Society notes that modern microsurgical techniques have success rates above 90%.

You might be a candidate if you have persistent symptoms after a root canal, such as pain, swelling, or a pimple-like bump on the gum. This option is often used to save a tooth that would otherwise be removed. Key indications include ongoing infection that isn’t healing, a cyst or inflamed tissue around the root tip that needs removal, or complex root anatomy like curved canals or blockages that prevented the first root canal from being fully effective. We will always assess you thoroughly, including a CBCT scan at our Finchley clinic, to confirm an apicoectomy is the best option for your situation.

The whole process is designed to be comfortable and efficient. First, you have a 60 minute consultation and we take a CBCT scan, which takes about 20 to 40 seconds, to diagnose the problem and plan the surgery. On the treatment day the area is fully numb with local anaesthetic. The procedure itself typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy will make a small gum incision, remove the infected tissue and root tip using a dental operating microscope, and seal the end of the root. A few stitches are placed to help the gum heal. You return for a follow-up appointment 7 to 10 days later to have the stitches removed and to check healing.

Care after surgery supports a smooth recovery. In the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort. Use an ice pack on the outside of the cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods and avoid hard, crunchy, or hot foods, and avoid strenuous exercise for a few days. Most patients manage pain with over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen. Keep the area clean by rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours. Contact us if you have severe or increasing pain after day 3, uncontrolled bleeding, or a fever above 38 C. Call during office hours Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5, Tue, Thu 11 to 7. For emergencies after hours go to A&E or call 111.

Apicoectomy is effective but you have options. The main alternatives are non-surgical root canal retreatment and extraction. Retreating the root canal means redoing the original treatment, which can solve the issue without surgery but may not be possible if there is a post in the tooth or complex anatomy. Extraction removes the tooth and may require a dental implant or bridge later. We aim to save the natural tooth whenever possible and will discuss the best option during your consultation.

To help you decide, here are key questions to ask. What is your success rate for this procedure? Do you use a CBCT scanner for planning and a dental microscope during the surgery? What are the total costs, including the scan, surgery, and follow-up appointments? What is your experience with complex cases like mine? Finally, ask about the recovery process and what to expect in the first week after the procedure. A good provider will answer these questions clearly.

The cost of private root-end surgery depends on the complexity and location of the tooth. After a full clinical examination and CBCT scan at our Finchley practice, we provide a detailed treatment plan and a complete breakdown of all costs with no hidden fees. As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatment, but we do accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please have your policy details ready when you contact us so we can advise on coverage.