Laser Root Canal Treatment at Our Dedicated Finchley Practice

Laser-assisted root canal treatment uses a thin flexible laser fibre to clean and disinfect your tooth's root canals. After removing the infected pulp, the laser targets bacteria hidden deep in tiny tubes that traditional instruments and rinses may miss. This laser-activated irrigation helps sterilise the whole canal system. It is especially useful in curved canals or when retreating a previously treated tooth. We perform this with dental operating microscopes for precision and report success rates around 95 percent.

Seek care at a practice focused on endodontics if you have signs of a serious tooth infection or a complex case. Look for a persistent, severe toothache, extreme sensitivity to heat or cold, a small pimple-like bump on the gum, or darkening of a tooth. If a previous root canal failed or a general dentist referred you for a tooth with a complex root structure, you may be a candidate. Our Finchley practice has 3D CBCT scanners to diagnose issues and decide if laser therapy is the best option for you.

The process starts with a 60-minute consult and a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth's root structure. The procedure lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic. Then we access the tooth and remove the infected pulp tissue. We clean and shape the canals with small instruments. Next, the laser disinfects by inserting a fibre into the canals for 2 to 5 minutes to kill residual bacteria. Finally, we fill the canals with a biocompatible material and seal. A temporary filling is placed and you return to your general dentist for a crown in a few weeks.

Recovery tends to be quicker than with conventional treatment thanks to the laser. In the first 24 to 48 hours you may feel mild tenderness or sensitivity, manageable with over-the-counter painkillers. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth for a few days. You can brush and floss normally, but be gentle around the area. Red flags requiring contact include severe worsening pain after day 3, swelling that spreads, fever above 38 C, or a loose temporary filling. For emergencies outside office hours, go to A&E or call 111.

This is the standard procedure without laser energy. It has a high success rate of 85 to 95 percent but works less well in teeth with very complex canal systems. Our practice uses advanced techniques for all procedures, but the laser adds extra disinfection.

Removing the tooth is another option if it cannot be saved. This creates a gap that needs a replacement like an implant or bridge to prevent shifting and restore function. Our philosophy is to save the natural tooth when possible, which is usually the most cost effective and healthiest long-term solution.

To choose what is right for you, ask key questions whether you see us or another North London practice. Inquire about the laser type and the dentist's training. Ask how the laser could improve your outcome for your case. Request a full cost breakdown and whether laser treatment adds a fee compared with a conventional procedure. Finally, ask about success rates for similar cases and what follow-up looks like.

Complex root canal work using lasers reflects the level of expertise and equipment. While we do not have a fixed price because it depends on complexity, our root canal fees start from £750. This includes consultation, 3D CBCT scan, the full procedure, and follow-up checks. There are no hidden fees. We are private and accept insurance from Denplan, Cigna, and Max Bupa. We can provide a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate at your first visit.