Laser-Assisted Root Canal Retreatment in East Finchley

Retreatment is needed when the initial treatment fails to heal or becomes re-infected. You should seek a consultation at our East Finchley practice if you notice persistent or returning toothache, tenderness to touch, gum swelling near the treated tooth, or a new pimple-like bump on your gums. Sometimes there are no obvious symptoms, and a problem is only seen on a dental x-ray or a 3D CBCT scan, which we use for detailed diagnosis. A recent patient near Finchley Central came to us with a dull ache that two other dentists could not diagnose. Our CBCT scan showed a tiny missed canal that caused the issue, which we addressed with retreatment.

Your treatment aims for precision and comfort. First, you have a 60 minute consultation. Dr. Ashok Reddy, who holds an MSc in Endodontics, uses a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth and locate the problem. Then, during the treatment appointment (usually 90 to 120 minutes), the tooth is numbed with local anaesthetic. We use a dental operating microscope to remove the old filling material. The key difference is that we apply a specialized dental laser to deliver light energy through the canals, vaporising residual bacteria and infected tissue, especially in tiny side channels that conventional instruments cannot reach. Finally, the canals are refilled and a temporary filling is placed. You return to your general dentist for a final crown.

Post-treatment recovery is usually straightforward. For the first two to three days you may have mild to moderate tenderness, manageable with over the counter pain relief. The tooth may feel different for about a week as tissues heal. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final crown is placed. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing gently around the area. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice on 0203 488 0335 during office hours (Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5, Tue, Thu 11 to 7) if you have severe, throbbing pain not relieved by painkillers, significant swelling in or outside the mouth, or fever. For emergencies outside these hours, call 111 or visit the nearest A&E.

While retreatment is often the best way to save your tooth, there are alternatives. One option is an apicoectomy, a minor surgical procedure to remove the tip of the tooth's root and any surrounding infection. This is typically considered if retreatment is not feasible or has also failed. The other main alternative is tooth extraction. While this removes the problem, it creates a new one: a gap. This gap would then need to be filled with a dental implant or bridge to restore function and prevent other teeth from shifting. During your consultation, we'll discuss the success rates and long-term pros and cons of each option for your specific situation.

To feel confident about your decision, ask the right questions whether you choose us or another practice in North London. Consider asking: what is the expected success rate for retreatment in my case; why is a laser being recommended over conventional methods for my tooth; does the quoted cost include the 3D CBCT scan and all follow-up visits; what are your qualifications for performing complex retreatments; what happens if the retreatment fails and what are the next steps and costs.

The cost of laser-assisted root canal retreatment depends on case complexity, such as the tooth involved and how hard it is to remove old materials. We provide a detailed, transparent quote with no hidden fees after the initial consultation and CBCT scan. As a private practice, NHS treatment is not offered. We accept several private plans including Denplan, Cigna, and Max Bupa. Our team helps with paperwork to make a claim. For example, a patient from Muswell Hill used Denplan to reduce the out of pocket cost for their molar retreatment.