Laser-Assisted Apicoectomy in Finchley Central

An apicoectomy is usually advised when a standard root canal retreatment does not clear the infection. You might need it if you have ongoing pain, swelling, or a recurrent abscess near a tooth that already had root canal therapy. It is also a good option when complex root anatomy, such as a sharply curved tip, makes retreatment unlikely to succeed. A recent Finchley Central patient with a crowned molar and persistent infection could not be fixed by two previous root canals. The 3D CBCT scan showed an infected canal at the root tip. A laser apicoectomy resolved the issue without removing the crown.

The procedure is designed for comfort. First you will have a 60-minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth root structure and infection. The surgery itself usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic so you won’t feel pain. Then a small gum incision provides access to the root tip, which is removed along with infected tissue. The laser sterilises the site before a small filling seals the end of the root. Finally the gum is sutured. You return for a brief 15-minute follow-up about 7 to 10 days later to check healing and remove the stitches.

Recovery is usually straightforward. In the first 24 to 48 hours you may have mild swelling and discomfort, which you can manage with ibuprofen. An ice pack on the cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off can help reduce swelling. Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting. By day 3 to 4 the discomfort should ease. Most patients return to normal activities within a couple of days. Long term success rates for apicoectomies are high, about 85 to 95 percent, meaning the tooth can be saved for many years. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice if you have increasing severe pain after day 3, a fever above 38 C, or uncontrolled bleeding during office hours Mon Wed Fri 9 to 5, Tue Thu 11 to 7. For out of hours emergencies, visit A and E or call 111.

While a laser apicoectomy is highly effective, it helps to know your options. The main alternatives are root canal retreatment or tooth extraction. Root Canal Retreatment: This involves reopening the tooth to clean and reseal the canals. It may be preferred if the initial root canal was not completed to a high standard. However, it may not be possible if there is a large post in the tooth or complex anatomy. Tooth Extraction: Removing the tooth is the final option. While it solves the infection, it leaves a gap that can cause other teeth to shift. The missing tooth would then need to be replaced with a dental implant or bridge, which involves a longer treatment timeline and higher overall cost. We will discuss which option fits your clinical situation.

A laser-assisted apicoectomy is a complex procedure requiring advanced training and equipment. At our Finchley practice, the cost for this treatment reflects the high level of care provided. We believe in full transparency, and you will be given a detailed breakdown of all costs before proceeding. As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatment. However, we accept several major dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team can help you understand your coverage and will handle the paperwork. During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalised quote with no hidden fees.

To make an informed choice about your care, here are some key questions to ask any provider, whether it’s us or another practice in North London: Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning for apicoectomies? What are the specific benefits of using a laser for my procedure? What is your success rate with this type of surgery? What does the quoted fee include Does it cover the initial scan and all follow-up visits? What are the risks involved and what happens if the procedure fails? What level of postgraduate training do you have in endodontics?