Endodontic Therapy in Finchley Central: Saving Your Tooth

You may need endodontic therapy if the soft tissue inside your tooth, the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. This treatment is often the only option besides removing the tooth. Key signs that you should book an assessment include a severe, persistent toothache, long lasting sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the source is removed, and tenderness or swelling in the nearby gums. A tooth that has darkened in colour is another common sign. If you notice any of these, arrange a prompt evaluation to see if root canal treatment is right for you.

First, you will have a 60 minute consultation where we use digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose the problem precisely. The treatment itself is done under local anaesthetic and typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy will use a dental operating microscope to see the tiny canals inside your tooth in great detail. He will remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the root canals, then fill and seal the space. After the procedure, a permanent crown is placed by your general dentist to protect the tooth from fracture. The entire process from consultation to final restoration aims to preserve your tooth for the long term. For example, a recent Finchley Central patient with a painful molar infection was treated in a single 90 minute visit. The microscope helped us uncover a hidden fourth canal and achieve a successful outcome.

After a root canal you may feel some tenderness for a few days, especially if there was pain or infection beforehand. This is usually manageable with over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen. Try to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent crown is in place. You can brush and floss as normal, but be gentle around the treated area. With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, a tooth treated with endodontic therapy can last a long time. If you notice signs like severe pain lasting more than a few days, swelling, an uneven bite, or a reaction to medication, call during office hours (Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5; Tue, Thu 11 to 7).

Endodontic therapy has a high success rate, but you have options. The main alternative is tooth extraction. This can be quicker and cheaper at first, but it leaves a gap that may require a dental implant, bridge, or denture to restore chewing and prevent nearby teeth from shifting. These replacements are usually more complex and costly over time than saving the natural tooth. Our approach is to try to save natural teeth whenever possible. We will discuss all viable options with you during your consultation at our Finchley practice.

To decide what works best for you, here are some essential questions to ask about endodontic therapy, whether you choose us or another practice in the Finchley Central area: What is your success rate for this procedure? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT for diagnosis and treatment? What are the total costs, including the consultation, treatment, and the final crown? How much experience do you have with complex cases like re-treatments or curved canals? What are the risks if I delay this treatment? Do you accept my dental insurance such as Denplan or Cigna?

We are a private dental practice and do not offer NHS treatment. The cost of private endodontic therapy reflects the advanced technology and postgraduate training required to perform it successfully. After your initial consultation and 3D scan, we will provide a clear treatment plan and a full breakdown of costs with no hidden fees. This lets you make an informed decision. We accept private dental insurance from major providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment, and our team will help with the paperwork. We believe in transparency and ensuring you understand the value of saving a natural tooth.