Gentle Endodontic Care for West Finchley Patients

You may need endodontic treatment, commonly called a root canal, if the soft tissue inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This happens from deep decay, repeated procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip. Key symptoms include a severe, persistent toothache, lasting sensitivity to hot or cold, tooth discoloration, or tender, swollen gums near the troubled tooth. If you notice a small, pimple like bump on your gums, it signals an abscess needing urgent care. We offer same day appointments during office hours for West Finchley patients and others in North London with these urgent signs.

Your comfort guides every step. First, a 60 minute consultation where Dr. Reddy uses a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth's root. Then the area is fully numbed with local anesthesia. The procedure usually takes 60-90 minutes and starts with a small opening to remove the infected pulp. Dr. Reddy cleans and shapes the root canals under a dental microscope for precision. Finally the canals are filled and sealed. Most patients feel pressure rather than pain. A temporary filling goes in, and a permanent crown should be placed by your general dentist later to protect the tooth.

A recent West Finchley patient arrived with throbbing pain in a lower molar. Our 3D CBCT revealed a hidden infected fourth canal causing the problem. Using the microscope, Dr. Reddy located and treated it, providing immediate relief. Another patient came after a failed root canal elsewhere. Retreatment was delicate, but by carefully removing the old filling and disinfecting the canals, we saved the tooth they believed was lost. This shows the value of advanced endodontic care.

After your procedure you may feel some tenderness for a few days as the area heals. This is usually manageable with over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen. For the first 24 to 48 hours, eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth. Brush and floss as usual but be gentle near the area. We will give you detailed aftercare instructions. Schedule an appointment with your regular dentist to fit a permanent crown, which protects the tooth from future damage. In the long term a root treated tooth can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene. Red flags during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5 and Tue/Thu 11-7): Severe pain not relieved by medicine; swelling increasing after three days; your temporary filling feels loose or falls out; signs of medication allergy such as a rash.

Our aim is to save the natural tooth whenever possible. Sometimes an alternative is needed. The main option is tooth extraction. If the tooth is removed, it should be replaced to prevent shifting and restore chewing. Replacement choices include a dental implant, which acts as a new tooth root, or a fixed bridge supported by crowns on adjacent teeth. During your consultation Dr. Reddy will discuss the prognosis honestly and help you decide whether saving the tooth with endodontic treatment is the best choice for you.

To choose what suits you best, ask questions during your visit with us or another West Finchley practice. Consider asking: What is the success rate for this procedure on this particular tooth? Do you use a dental microscope and 3D imaging for diagnosis and treatment? How many appointments are needed? What are the total costs, including the consultation and scan? What risks come with not having the treatment? Understanding these points helps you feel confident in your decision.

As a private practice, we offer clear pricing for all treatments. The cost of root canal work depends on complexity and which tooth is affected. We provide a fully itemised treatment plan with no hidden fees after the initial consultation and scan. We do not offer NHS services, but we accept private plans such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment; our team will help with paperwork and explain your coverage.