Laser-Assisted Apicectomy for Finchley Central Patients

An apicectomy is not a first line treatment. It is usually offered by a dentist with advanced endodontic training when a conventional root canal has failed or cannot be done. You might be a candidate if there is a persistent infection at the tip of the tooth root visible on X-ray or a 3D CBCT scan. This can occur due to complex root anatomy such as a small curved canal that cannot be fully cleaned, or a cyst around the root tip. The goal is to reach the root end, remove infected tissue, and seal the tooth to prevent future infection, giving the natural tooth a final chance. A recent Finchley Central patient was referred for a molar that stayed painful months after a root canal. Our CBCT showed a small persistent cyst, making an apicectomy the best option to save the tooth.

Your treatment begins with a 60 minute consultation, during which we use a 3D CBCT scan to map the root and surrounding bone precisely. The surgery itself typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The area is numbed with local anaesthetic so you will feel only pressure and movement. A small incision in the gum provides access to the root tip. Using a dental operating microscope for high magnification, the infected tissue and the end of the root are removed. The laser is used to clean and disinfect the area with high precision, which supports healing. A small, biocompatible filling is placed to seal the root end and the gum is stitched. You return in about a week for a quick 15 minute check to remove the stitches and monitor healing progress.

After an apicectomy you can expect some discomfort and swelling. A typical timeline follows a pattern of gradual improvement. In the first few days you may notice swelling around the surgical site that peaks around two to three days. Ice packs for 20 minutes on then 20 minutes off can help. Pain is usually manageable with over the counter medicines like ibuprofen. Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side. In the first week swelling and discomfort lessen, and you should continue eating soft foods and avoid strenuous activity for a few days. Keep the area clean by rinsing with warm salt water or a prescribed mouthwash, taking care not to disturb the stitches. If you notice increasing pain or swelling after day three, a fever above 38°C, or any bleeding or pus from the site, contact the office during hours. For emergencies outside these hours, call 111 or go to A&E.

While an apicectomy saves a tooth, you have other options. Root canal retreatment is the main alternative; if feasible, redoing the original root canal can resolve the infection without surgery. This is not always possible if there is a large post in the tooth or complex anatomy. Another option is tooth extraction. This removes the infection but creates a gap that needs a restoration such as a dental implant or bridge to restore function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. An implant is long lasting but more costly and typically takes several months. We will discuss which option is clinically best during your consultation.

A laser assisted apicectomy is a complex microsurgical procedure, and the cost reflects the advanced technology and expertise required. You will receive a full, personalised quote after the initial consultation and 3D CBCT scan. The fee includes the surgery, all imaging, and follow up appointments with no hidden costs. As a private practice, NHS treatment is not offered here. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment so we can help you understand your coverage.

To make an informed choice about your treatment in the Finchley area, consider these questions: what is your success rate for apicectomy procedures, do you use a dental operating microscope and a laser for this surgery, what are the specific risks based on your 3D scan, is root canal retreatment a viable option for me, what does the quoted fee include and exclude, and what are your qualifications and experience with this procedure