Gentle, Advanced Root Canal Treatment in Finchley

Root canal treatment is needed when the soft tissue inside your tooth, called the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or repeated dental procedures. You should consider an assessment if you're experiencing sharp, intense pain when biting, a lingering ache after eating hot or cold foods, or a dull, constant throb. Other signs include a discoloured (darkened) tooth or tender, swollen gums near the problem tooth. Many Finchley patients seek treatment when toothache wakes them up at night. The goal is to remove the infection, relieve the pain, and save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction.

Our process aims for precision and comfort. First, you have a 45-minute consultation, including a 3D CBCT scan to give a detailed view of your tooth's root structure. The treatment itself lasts a single visit of 60-90 minutes. We begin by fully numbing the area with local anaesthetic so you won't feel pain. Next, using a dental operating microscope for enhanced visibility, Dr. Reddy cleans and shapes the root canals, removing all infected tissue. The canals are disinfected and sealed with a biocompatible material. Finally, a temporary filling is placed. After a few weeks, you return to your general dentist to receive a permanent crown to protect the tooth. The success rate for this procedure is typically between 85-95%.

A recent patient, a 45-year-old from North Finchley, came with severe pain in a lower molar. The 3D scan confirmed an infection causing the discomfort. The entire root canal procedure lasted about 80 minutes, and he reported only pressure, not pain. Another case involved a patient from Barnet whose previous root canal, done elsewhere, had failed. Using our operating microscope, Dr. Reddy located and treated a tiny missed canal, solving a long-standing infection and saving the tooth from extraction.

After treatment, the tooth and surrounding gums may feel tender for a few days. This is normal and is managed with over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. For the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid chewing on the treated tooth. You may return to normal activities the same day. Maintain your usual brushing and flossing to keep the area clean. The tooth stays unprotected until a permanent crown is placed by your dentist, so schedule that appointment promptly. Long-term, a root canal treated tooth lasts with good oral hygiene. Red flags requiring immediate contact: Call our practice if you experience severe, increasing pain not relieved by painkillers, visible swelling inside or outside the mouth, or a fever above 38°C during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). For out-of-hours emergencies, visit A&E or call 111.

We aim to save natural teeth whenever possible. Sometimes a root canal proves not the best option. The main alternative is tooth extraction. Removing the tooth resolves infection and pain but creates a gap. A missing tooth may cause surrounding teeth to shift and bone loss in the jaw. If extraction is chosen, we strongly recommend replacing the tooth. Options include a dental implant, which is a titanium post that acts as a new root, or a fixed bridge, where a false tooth is supported by crowns on the neighbouring teeth. During your consultation, we discuss the pros and cons of each choice for your situation.

To make an informed choice about your care, here are some important questions to ask any dentist, whether you consult with us or another practice in the Finchley area: - Do you use a dental operating microscope for all root canal procedures? - What is your success rate for this type of treatment? - How many appointments will the entire process take, including the final crown? - What are the full costs involved, including the consultation, treatment, and final restoration? - What are the risks if I delay this treatment? - Do you have postgraduate qualifications in endodontics? - What pain management options do you provide during and after the procedure?

As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatment. The cost of advanced root canal treatment depends on the complexity of the case and which tooth is affected. Molars, for example, have more canals and are more difficult to treat than front teeth. Following your initial consultation and 3D scan, we will provide you with a detailed treatment plan and a full breakdown of costs with no hidden fees. Our practice accepts private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. We can assist you with the paperwork needed for your claim. Please contact our reception team to discuss payment options and insurance coverage.