Gentle Root Canal Treatment for West Finchley Patients

Root canal is needed when the tooth pulp becomes inflamed or infected. Causes include deep decay, repeated procedures, or a crack. Seek a consult for persistent toothache, long heat or cold sensitivity, tooth discolouration, or swelling. Many West Finchley patients come with severe tooth pain that disrupts sleep. The treatment can relieve pain and save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction, with success around 85 to 95 percent.

We prioritise comfort. You start with a 45 minute consultation with digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan if needed to diagnose the issue. The procedure uses local anaesthetic so you should not feel pain. It usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the root canals, and then fills and seals the space. We use a dental operating microscope up to 25x magnification for precision, making the procedure faster, more thorough, and less invasive. A temporary filling is placed and you return later for a permanent crown to protect the tooth.

A recent West Finchley patient had severe pain in a back molar. The visit took 75 minutes and there was no pain during treatment; recovery was quick, back to normal within two days with over-the-counter pain relief. In another case, a patient was referred after a failed previous root canal. Our 3D CBCT scan found a tiny missed canal causing ongoing infection. Using the microscope, Dr. Reddy retreated the tooth and saved it from extraction.

After treatment the tooth and surrounding gums may feel tender for a few days as the inflammation settles. This is normal and can be managed with standard pain relief such as ibuprofen. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is permanently restored with a crown. You can usually return to work or daily activities the same day. Long term, care for the treated tooth like any other with good brushing, flossing, and regular check ups. Red flags call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7): Severe pain not helped by painkillers, swelling inside or outside the mouth that worsens after 3 days, or if the temporary filling comes out.

The only true option besides root canal is tooth extraction. Although it removes the infection, it can cause surrounding teeth to shift and bone loss over time. Replacing the tooth with an implant or bridge is possible, but these options are more invasive and costly than saving your natural tooth. Our goal is to keep your natural teeth whenever possible, as this is the healthiest and least invasive choice. During your consultation we will explain why saving the tooth is our main recommendation.

To decide what works for you, consider these questions for any provider, whether here in Finchley or elsewhere: ask about use of a dental microscope for all root canals, their success rate for your case, how many appointments full treatment takes, whether the final crown is included in the price, and signs that a root canal might need retreatment.

As a private practice dedicated to endodontics we publish clear pricing. The cost depends on complexity and which tooth is affected; molars cost more due to more canals. You will receive a personalised quote at your consultation with no hidden fees. We do not offer NHS services, but we accept private plans from Denplan, Cigna, and Max Bupa. Please have your policy details ready when you contact us.