Gentle Root Canal Therapy in East Finchley

You may need a root canal if the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen after deep decay, a crack, or multiple dental procedures. If left untreated, it can cause an abscess and bone loss. Book an assessment if you have severe, ongoing tooth pain, especially when you lie down; lasting sensitivity to hot or cold after the source is removed; a dark or discolored tooth; or tender, swollen gums near the tooth. Some people notice a small bump on the gums near the tooth.

We designed our root canal process to be smooth and comfortable. First, a 60-minute consultation with Dr. Ashok Reddy, MSc Endodontics, uses a 3D CBCT scan and digital imaging to diagnose the issue precisely. Next is the treatment itself, typically 60-90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic so you feel no pain, only light pressure. Dr. Reddy uses a dental operating microscope to clean the infected pulp from the root canals and seal them to prevent reinfection. A recent patient from East Finchley had intense molar pain, and the microscope helped us find and treat a tiny hidden fourth canal that might have been missed, ensuring a successful result. Finally, you will have a follow-up with your general dentist to place a permanent crown and protect the tooth long term.

After a root canal, you may feel mild tenderness for a few days as the area heals. In the first 24-48 hours, discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Stick to soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies, and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the crown is placed. You can brush and floss normally but be gentle around the area. Avoid strenuous exercise for a day or two. A patient from Muswell Hill referred for a complex root canal found these steps helped recovery. If you experience severe, increasing pain after day 3, swelling, or a fever above 38C, contact us during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). For after-hours emergencies, call 111 or go to A&E.

We aim to save natural teeth when possible and root canal has a high success rate. Sometimes it is not the best option. The main alternative is tooth extraction. Removing the tooth ends infection but leaves a gap. That gap needs a dental implant or a fixed bridge to restore function and prevent movement of nearby teeth. Although extraction is quicker and cheaper at first, long-term costs and treatment time to replace the tooth are often higher than saving it with a root canal. During your consultation we provide an honest assessment of the long-term outlook so you can choose what suits you.

To make an informed choice about your dental care, ask a few essential questions. Whether you see us or another practice in North London, consider asking: What is the success rate for this procedure? Will you use a dental microscope for my treatment? What qualifications do you have for complex cases? What are the total costs including consultation, treatment, and scans? Will a crown be needed after the procedure and is that included? What pain management options do you offer during and after? What risks come with delaying or not having treatment?

As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatment. The cost depends on how complex the case is, such as which tooth and whether it is a first treatment or retreatment. We provide a clear quote after your initial assessment and 3D scan. This gives you a precise price based on your needs. We accept private plans such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team helps you understand coverage and handles paperwork. We aim to provide specialist care that is a solid long-term investment in your health.