Advanced Endodontic Care for Patients in West Finchley

If you have nerve pain or signs of infection inside a tooth, you should seek evaluation. Common symptoms include a severe, persistent toothache, pain when chewing, or lingering sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts more than 30 seconds. Discolouration in the tooth, swelling or tenderness in nearby gums, and a pimple-like bump on the gum called a fistula can indicate an abscess that needs urgent care. Our practice offers same day appointments during office hours for patients from West Finchley and across North London who need immediate assessment for these symptoms.

We begin with a 60 minute consultation using digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to pinpoint the issue. The treatment is typically scheduled for 60 to 90 minutes per tooth. A local anaesthetic ensures comfort. Dr. Reddy then uses a dental operating microscope to remove infected pulp, clean the canals, and shape them. The canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection. Afterward, a permanent filling or crown is placed at a follow up appointment a few weeks later. The success rate for primary root canal treatment typically ranges from 85 to 95 percent.

A patient from West Finchley was referred with persistent pain from a molar that had a root canal years earlier. Our 3D CBCT scan identified a missed canal, a common issue without microscope visualization. Dr. Reddy performed retreatment in a 90 minute session, using the operating microscope to locate and clean the hidden canal. The patient’s pain resolved within a week, saving the tooth from extraction.

A 45-year-old from Muswell Hill arrived with a suspected cracked tooth. Standard X-rays made the diagnosis difficult. With the dental microscope’s high magnification, Dr. Reddy found a tiny fracture extending into the pulp. He cleaned the canal system and sealed the tooth, stopping further bacterial entry. This precise diagnosis helped the patient keep the natural tooth and avoid an implant.

After a root canal, you may feel tenderness for 2 to 4 days, manageable with over the counter pain relief. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration is in place. For the first 24 hours, choose soft foods. You can brush and floss normally but be gentle around the treated area. Attend the follow up to fit the permanent restoration, which protects the tooth from fracture. With good oral hygiene, a treated tooth can last a lifetime. Call our practice during office hours if pain is severe or swelling occurs, or if you have an allergic reaction. For emergencies outside hours, visit A&E or call 111.

Our aim is to save natural teeth whenever possible, but there are alternatives. The main option is extraction. While quicker and often cheaper at first, it creates a gap that may cause nearby teeth to shift. The missing tooth would then need a dental implant or a bridge, both typically more involved and costly than saving the original tooth. In some cases where a previous root canal has failed, an apicoectomy may be considered. We discuss all suitable options and explain the pros and cons for your situation.

To decide what works best for you, ask about the dentist’s experience with complex cases and the technologies used, such as microscopes or 3D scanning. Inquire about the number of appointments, the total cost including the final crown, and the long term success rate. Also ask about alternatives and why this treatment plan is recommended for you.

As a private practice, NHS treatment is not offered. The cost of root canal treatment depends on complexity and the tooth involved. A full, personalised quote is provided during the initial consultation with no hidden fees. We accept several private insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team can help with the paperwork to understand and use your coverage. Please bring your insurance details to the first appointment.