Understanding Apicoectomy Costs in Finchley Central

The final cost depends on several factors we review during your consultation. The main variable is which tooth needs treatment. Front teeth are easier to access and cheaper to treat than back molars, which have multiple roots and are harder to reach. The complexity of the root structure and the extent of the infection seen on a 3D CBCT scan can affect surgical time and cost. The fee at our Finchley practice is all inclusive, covering the initial consultation, all imaging, the procedure, and follow-up visits. There are no hidden fees.

An apicoectomy is advised when a previous root canal has failed and retreatment is not practical or unlikely to succeed. You might need this if infection stays at the root tip, often forming a cyst. It is also appropriate if the root tip anatomy is complex and cannot be cleaned during the initial root canal. By removing the root tip and sealing the end, we can clear the infection and save a tooth that would otherwise be extracted. It is a last resort, but it has a high success rate, typically over 90 percent.

First you will have a 60 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth’s root and infection. Next the surgical appointment lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy, who holds an MSc in Endodontics, will numb the area with local anaesthetic. A small incision is made in the gum to access the root tip. The infected tissue and the last millimetres of the root tip are removed under magnification with a microscope. The end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed. Finally a few small stitches are placed in the gum and are usually removed after seven days. Most patients feel pressure but little or no pain during the procedure.

After the procedure you can expect some manageable discomfort and swelling. Here is a typical timeline: Days 1 to 3 peak swelling with mild to moderate tenderness, peaking around 48 to 72 hours. Use ice packs on the outside of the cheek for 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off. Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt and smoothies. We provide appropriate pain relief. Week 1 the discomfort fades. Brush gently around the surgical site and use the prescribed antiseptic mouthwash. Stitches are usually removed after five to seven days. Red flags during office hours are contact us for increasing, severe pain after day 3, a fever above 38 C, or persistent bleeding that does not stop with pressure. For emergencies outside hours, contact NHS 111 or go to A and E.

While an apicoectomy is highly effective, you should know your options. The main alternative is tooth extraction, which removes the tooth. This solves the infection but leaves a gap in your smile. That gap can be filled with a dental implant, a fixed bridge, or a removable denture. An implant is durable but starts from around £2,500 and takes a timeline of about 4 to 9 months. A bridge is faster but requires grinding down healthy adjacent teeth. In most cases saving your natural tooth with an apicoectomy is the most conservative and biologically sound option.

To make an informed choice, consider these questions for any provider in Finchley or elsewhere. What is your experience with this procedure, especially on molars? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning for planning and surgery? Is the quoted price all inclusive of scans, surgery, and follow-up care? What is the expected success rate for my case? What signs of failure should I watch for long term? Do you accept private dental plans like Denplan or Cigna?