Dedicated Endodontic Practice for Finchley Central Patients

Most patients are referred by their general dentist when a case needs specialised equipment and experience. You should choose a practice limited to endodontics if you have severe, lingering tooth pain, if a previous root canal has failed and needs retreatment, or if your tooth has a complex anatomy like curved or narrow canals. For example, a Finchley Central patient was sent to us because their molar had a hidden extra canal that their dentist couldn't find. With our dental operating microscope we located and treated the canal, saving the tooth. You are likely in the right place if you want the highest chance of success for your root canal, as studies show success rates around 85 to 95 percent with this level of care.

The process aims for precision and comfort. First, you have a 60 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan to map your tooth root structure. This helps careful planning. The root canal usually takes one visit of 60-90 minutes. It is done under local anaesthetic, so you feel pressure but not pain. We use a dental operating microscope to see deep inside the canals and remove all infected tissue. After cleaning and sealing the canals, you return to your general dentist for a crown to protect the tooth. The focus is on a painless approach to saving your natural tooth.

Post treatment care is straightforward. For the first 2-3 days you may have mild tenderness or sensitivity, which you can manage with over the counter painkillers. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent crown is in place. Stick to softer foods early on. Maintain good oral hygiene but be gentle around the treated area for a few days. Red flags requiring a call during office hours (Mon Wed Fri 9-5, Tue Thu 11-7): severe increasing pain after day 3, visible swelling inside or outside your mouth, or fever. For emergencies after hours, go to A and E or call 111.

The main goal is saving your natural tooth, which is usually best. The primary alternative is tooth extraction. Removing the tooth resolves infection and pain but creates a gap that can cause nearby teeth to shift. Replacing options include a dental implant or a fixed bridge. An implant is a lasting solution but involves surgery and a higher cost (from £2,500 plus crown). A bridge is quicker but requires grinding down healthy adjacent teeth. At your consultation we will explain why saving the tooth is our preferred option.

To make an informed choice about your care, whether you consult with us or another practice in North London, you should ask these questions: Do you use a dental operating microscope for all root canal procedures? What is your success rate for a case like mine? Is a 3D CBCT scan included in the assessment? What does the quoted fee include, and will I need a crown afterwards? Who will place the final crown on the tooth? Do you accept private dental insurance plans like Denplan or Cigna?

As a private practice limited to endodontics, we do not offer NHS treatment. Our fees reflect the advanced technology, time, and postgraduate training required for complex cases. The cost of treatment depends on the specific tooth and the complexity of the procedure. During your initial consultation, we provide a full breakdown of costs with no hidden fees, so you understand the investment in saving your tooth. We accept several private insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please have your insurance details ready when you book, and we can help clarify your coverage.