Experienced Root Canal Treatment in East Finchley

You may need root canal treatment if the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen from deep decay, repeated procedures, a crack, or an injury. Signs to watch for include severe toothache, especially when chewing or lying down, lasting sensitivity to hot or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums, or a persistent pimple-like bump on the gum. If you have any of these, arrange a prompt assessment at our Finchley practice to see if the tooth can be saved.

The process is designed to be comfortable and efficient. First you have a 60 minute consultation with digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose the problem and plan the treatment. The procedure uses local anaesthetic and typically takes a single 60 to 90 minute appointment. Dr. Reddy will access the inside of your tooth, remove the infected pulp, and thoroughly clean the root canals using a dental operating microscope for better visibility. This technology helps us find tiny canals that might be missed. Then the canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. You will be referred back to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the tooth.

After your procedure, it is normal to experience some tenderness for 2-3 days, which you can manage with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent crown is fitted. For the first 24 hours stick to soft foods. Most patients return to their usual activities the next day. Long term, a root treated tooth needs the same care as any other tooth: regular brushing and flossing and routine dental check ups. A Hampstead patient was referred with a previously failed root canal on a molar. Using our CBCT scanner, we found a missed canal. The retreatment took 90 minutes and the infection cleared, saving the tooth from extraction and a costly implant. If you notice severe pain not relieved by painkillers, swelling that grows after day 3, or a temporary filling comes out, call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7).

Our main goal is to save your natural tooth because it’s usually best for long term oral health. Success rates for root canal treatment are high. The main alternative is tooth extraction. If a tooth is removed, it should be replaced to prevent shifting and to restore chewing function. Options include a dental implant, a fixed bridge, or a removable partial denture. Each alternative involves more extensive treatment and higher long term costs than saving the original tooth. During your consultation we’ll honestly discuss whether your tooth is restorable or if another option is more predictable.

To help you decide whether to choose us or another practice in North London, consider these questions: what are your qualifications and your experience with complex root canals, do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT for diagnosis and treatment, what is your success rate for this procedure, what are the total costs including the consultation and any scans, what happens if the treatment does not work and what are the retreatment options, and will I need a crown after the procedure and is that included in the fee.

As a private practice limited to endodontics, we provide transparent cost estimates after your initial consultation and diagnosis. The fee for root canal treatment depends on the complexity of the case, such as which tooth is affected and whether it is a first time treatment or retreatment. Your quote includes the consultation, all necessary digital x-rays and 3D scans, and the procedure itself. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Contact our reception team to discuss your specific coverage.