Endodontic Surgery Costs in Finchley: A Guide to Apicoectomy

Endodontic surgery is usually chosen when a standard root canal does not fully resolve the infection. It is the right option if you have persistent pain or swelling months after a root canal, or if a 3D CBCT scan shows infection at the root tip that cannot be reached from inside the tooth. You are also a good candidate if your tooth has a complex root structure, such as a sharp curve, or a post that makes retreatment impractical. For instance, a patient from North Finchley recently sought help for a molar with a persistent abscess despite a root canal years ago. An apicoectomy allowed direct cleaning of the root tip and finally resolved the issue, saving a tooth that would otherwise have been extracted.

The cost for private endodontic surgery (apicoectomy) at our Finchley practice starts from £950. The final fee depends on tooth location (molars are more complex than front teeth) and the intricacy of the procedure. This price covers a full plan to save your tooth and includes: initial 60-minute consultation with Dr. Ashok Reddy (GDC: 85978), detailed 3D CBCT scan to map the root and infection, the surgical procedure itself under local anaesthetic using a dental operating microscope, and all necessary follow-up appointments to monitor healing. There are no hidden fees. We are a private-only practice and do not offer NHS services, but we accept insurance plans from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. A fully detailed treatment plan is provided after your initial assessment.

The process starts with your consultation and 3D scan. The surgery itself takes a single visit, usually 60 to 90 minutes. First, Dr. Reddy applies a local anaesthetic so you feel no pain, only pressure. Next, he makes a small gum incision to access the infected root tip. Using a high magnification microscope, the infected tissue and the end of the root are removed. The root canal is sealed from the tip end with a small filling to prevent future infection. Finally, the gum is stitched back into place. You will go home the same day with full aftercare instructions. The stitches are typically removed after one week.

For the first 24-48 hours, expect swelling and mild discomfort. Use an ice pack on your cheek for 20-minute intervals to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen usually manage pain. Eat soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies, and avoid chewing on the surgical side for the first week. Most patients feel back to normal within 3-5 days and are able to resume most activities. A recent patient from Golders Green returned to their office job two days after the procedure, managing mild tenderness with regular painkillers.

Proper healing is expected, but you should call our practice during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) if you experience increasing pain after day 3, a fever above 38°C, or uncontrolled bleeding. For emergencies outside these hours, please visit your local A&E or call 111. Long-term, the tooth is saved and functions normally. You simply need to maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups to ensure it lasts a lifetime.

While apicoectomy is highly effective, know your options. The main alternatives are: 1. Non-Surgical Root Canal Retreatment: This involves re-doing the original root canal from inside the tooth. It is often the first choice if possible, but it is not suitable if there is a large post in the tooth or complex anatomy. 2. Tooth Extraction: This is the simplest and least expensive initial option. However, it leaves a gap that can cause other teeth to shift and requires a replacement like a dental implant or a bridge, making it a more costly solution in the long run. Our practice philosophy is always to save the natural tooth where clinically possible.

To make an informed choice, here are key questions to ask, whether you consult with us or another practice in North London: ask about the success rate for this procedure, whether the quoted cost includes the 3D CBCT scan and all follow-up visits, whether a dental operating microscope is used, the risks in your case, why this option is better than retreatment or extraction, the qualifications and experience with microsurgery, and whether you need to take time off work and how much.