CBCT-Guided Root Canal Treatment in Finchley

A CBCT scan isn't needed for every root canal, but it is essential in specific situations where a 2D X-ray can't provide enough information. You're a good candidate for this advanced imaging if you have a tooth with a suspected crack or fracture, or if a previous root canal treatment has failed and the cause is unclear. It's also highly recommended for teeth with unusual or complex anatomy, such as extra roots or sharply curved canals, which are common in molars. For example, a patient from North Finchley came to us with persistent pain after a root canal elsewhere. A CBCT scan revealed a tiny, untreated fourth canal that was the source of the infection, allowing us to successfully retreat the tooth.

The process begins with an initial 60-minute consultation. First, we take the CBCT scan, which is quick and painless, taking less than a minute to capture hundreds of images. Next, Dr. Ashok Reddy, who holds an MSc in Endodontics, uses this 3D model to meticulously plan your treatment. The root canal procedure itself typically takes 60-90 minutes under local anaesthetic. Using a high-magnification dental microscope, Dr. Reddy will clean and shape the root canals, guided by the detailed 3D map. Finally, the canals are sealed, and a temporary filling is placed. You'll need to return to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the tooth long-term. The overall success rate for root canal treatment is high, around 85-95%, and using CBCT for complex cases helps ensure we achieve the best possible result.

After your procedure, you can expect some tenderness around the tooth for 2-4 days, which is easily managed with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. We recommend sticking to soft foods and avoiding chewing directly on the treated tooth until the initial discomfort subsides. In another case, a patient from Muswell Hill with very curved roots in a molar found the 3D planning invaluable. The precision meant less post-operative discomfort for him compared to a conventional approach. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the treated area for the first few days. Red flags requiring a call: Contact us immediately if you experience severe, increasing pain after day 3, visible swelling that spreads to your cheek, a fever above 38°C, or an allergic reaction to medication. Please call during our office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9am-5pm, Tue/Thu 11am-7pm). For severe emergencies outside these hours, you should call 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

In complex cases, the main alternative to a CBCT-guided root canal is tooth extraction. While this is a quicker and initially less expensive option, it leads to a gap that can cause other teeth to shift and result in bone loss in the jaw. Replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant is the gold standard but involves a longer process and a higher overall cost, starting from £2,500 for the implant alone. Another option is a fixed bridge, which requires grinding down healthy adjacent teeth to support the false tooth. Our practice philosophy is always to save the natural tooth where possible, and a CBCT scan gives us the best chance to do so.

To make an informed choice about your treatment, whether here or at another practice in North London, you should ask a few key questions. Ask why a CBCT scan is being recommended for your specific case and what information it will provide that a normal X-ray cannot. You should also inquire if the cost of the scan is included in the overall treatment fee or if it is a separate charge. Finally, ask how the 3D imaging will be used to improve the outcome of the procedure and reduce the risk of complications.

As a private practice, we do not offer NHS services. The cost for a complex root canal treatment requiring a CBCT scan will be quoted during your consultation, as it depends on the tooth's location and complexity. The fee includes the initial consultation, the CBCT scan itself, the procedure using our advanced dental operating microscopes, and all follow-up checks related to the treatment. There are no hidden fees. We accept several private insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact our reception team to discuss your specific coverage and payment options.