Laser-Assisted Root-End Surgery in Finchley

Root-end surgery is done when a root canal fails and infection stays at the root tip. You are a candidate if you have dull ache, pain when biting, or a small bump on the gum that looks like a pimple. It is also chosen when retreatment is difficult due to complex anatomy or a crown and post that cannot be removed. A 3D CBCT scan at our Finchley practice shows whether an infection or cyst remains at the root tip and whether this surgery can resolve the issue and save the tooth.

The initial 60 minute consult includes a detailed 3D CBCT to map the root and infection. The surgery lasts 60 to 90 minutes and uses local anaesthetic, so you feel pressure but not pain. Dr. Reddy makes a small gum incision to reach the root tip. The infected tissue and the tip are removed. A laser disinfects the area to improve the chance of success. The root apex is sealed with a biocompatible filling and the gum closed with small stitches. You return after about 7 to 10 days to have the stitches removed.

The main challenge in root canal work is removing bacteria from the complex network inside a tooth root. A dental laser gives an edge in this surgery. After the root tip is removed, the laser energy penetrates the surrounding dentine to kill bacteria that traditional instruments and liquids cannot reach. This creates a cleaner environment for healing and can improve long-term success. A patient from Muswell Hill with persistent infection after two prior treatments found success with our laser approach after a 3D scan showed the hidden source.

After the procedure you may see swelling and mild to moderate discomfort. Manage with ibuprofen. Use a cheek ice pack 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side. In the first week discomfort should lessen. Brush gently around the area and use the prescribed antiseptic mouthwash. Avoid heavy exercise for a few days. If you notice increasing pain after day 3, bleeding that won’t stop, fever, or pus from the surgical site contact us during office hours. Our success rate exceeds 90 percent and most patients heal without problems.

While an apicoectomy saves your natural tooth, there are alternatives. The main option is tooth extraction. After extraction you need to replace the tooth to prevent shifting and bone loss. Replacement options include a dental implant, a fixed bridge, or a removable partial denture. An implant is the most durable option but involves a longer process and higher cost (from £2,500 plus crown). A bridge is faster but requires grinding down adjacent healthy teeth. A denture is the least expensive option but also the least stable. We believe in saving natural teeth whenever possible, and we will discuss whether an apicoectomy suits you.

The price for a laser apicoectomy reflects the microsurgical approach and the technology involved. Prices start at £950. The fee at our Finchley practice includes the 3D CBCT scan, the surgery, and all follow-up visits including stitch removal. There are no hidden fees. At the consultation we provide a fixed quote based on the tooth and the case complexity. A Barnet patient needed this for a molar with curved roots. The fixed price helped budget for the treatment that saved the tooth from extraction. We accept private insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna.

To decide wisely, ask these questions when you meet us or another North London practice. 1. Why is an apicoectomy better than redoing the root canal? 2. What is your success rate with this procedure? 3. How does the laser and operating microscope improve the outcome? 4. What does the quoted price include and exclude? 5. What signs of failure should I watch for in the long term? 6. Who performs the surgery and what are their qualifications such as MSc in Endodontics?