Apicectomy Costs in Finchley Central: A Guide

An apicectomy, also called root-end surgery, is advised when inflammation or infection stays in the bone around the tooth tip after a root canal. You might be a candidate if root canal retreatment isn't possible or hasn't worked. Reasons include a blockage in the canal, a complex root with tiny branches that are hard to clean, or a persistent cyst. It is the last option to save a tooth that would otherwise need extraction. If you have ongoing pain, swelling, or a pimple-like bump on your gum near a treated tooth in Finchley, start with a consultation to see if this procedure fits you.

The private cost in our Finchley practice starts around £950. The final fee depends on factors such as tooth location and complexity. Front teeth are easier to treat than back molars with multiple roots. The fee covers the 3D CBCT scan for planning, the procedure under local anaesthetic, and follow-up visits. There are no hidden fees. We are a private practice and do not offer NHS services. We accept private dental insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. We provide a detailed treatment plan and cost breakdown at your initial 60 minute consultation.

The process starts with a 60 minute consultation including a 3D CBCT scan to locate the infection and plan the surgery. The treatment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic so you do not feel pain. A small gum incision gives access to the infected root tip. With a dental operating microscope, Dr. Reddy removes infected tissue and the end of the root tip. A small biocompatible filling seals the root end to prevent re-infection. Then the gum is closed with dissolvable sutures. You return for a quick check about one week later, and we schedule a final review after 6 to 12 months to confirm healing with an X-ray.

After the procedure you may have swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for two to three days. Swelling peaks around 48 hours. Manage it with an ice pack on the cheek for 20 minute intervals. Stick to soft foods for the first few days and avoid chewing on the treated side. Use over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen for discomfort. Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours to reduce bleeding. Keep the area clean by rinsing gently with warm salt water starting the day after surgery. Call the practice during office hours if you have severe or increasing pain after day three, uncontrolled bleeding, or a fever above 38 C. For emergencies outside hours, go to A&E or call 111.

While an apicectomy saves the tooth, know the alternatives. The main options are root canal retreatment or extraction. Retreat involves reopening and cleaning the canals again. This may suit a compromised initial root canal but isn’t possible if there is a post or a blockage. Extraction removes the tooth. It fixes the infection but creates a gap that needs an implant or bridge to restore function and prevent shifting. An implant often costs more and takes longer than saving the tooth with an apicectomy. We discuss which option is best for your situation during the consultation.

To make an informed choice, here are key questions to ask any provider whether at our Finchley practice or elsewhere. Start by asking their success rate for this procedure, especially with a microscope. Modern methods have success rates above 90 percent. Also find out what the quoted cost covers, including the initial scan and all follow-up visits. Ask about experience, specifically how many apicectomy procedures they perform each year. Inquire about the recovery process and post operative support. Finally ask why they recommend an apicectomy over retreatment or extraction for your case.