Microscope Apicectomy in East Finchley

An apicectomy, or root-end surgery, is advised when a standard root canal has not resolved the problem and retreatment is not possible. You are a candidate if a persistent infection appears on an X-ray long after the first treatment. This often occurs with complex root anatomy, such as small curved canals that could not be cleaned fully. Another reason involves a tooth with a crown and a structural post, where removing them to redo the root canal could fracture the tooth. In these cases an apicectomy lets us treat the infection at the root tip while preserving your existing dental work. We use a 3D CBCT scan here in East Finchley to confirm this approach fits your case.

During the microscope guided apicectomy you stay comfortably numb with local anaesthetic. The procedure typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. A small gum incision exposes the bone and the infected root tip. Using the dental operating microscope for clear visibility, we remove the end of the root and surrounding infected tissue. Then we clean and seal the root end with a small filling to stop reinfection. Finally the gum is stitched closed. The microscope helps us see tiny details invisible to the naked eye, contributing to a high success rate well above 90 percent compared with non microscopic methods.

A typical case involves a patient from nearby Muswell Hill who had a root canal years ago and now faces a recurring abscess. A 3D scan often reveals a hidden canal branch at the root tip. An apicectomy can resolve this in a single visit. Another example is a patient with a good crown and post on a front tooth that has become reinfected. Rather than removing the crown, a microscope guided apicectomy from the root end saves the tooth and the restoration.

After surgery you may feel some discomfort and swelling for a few days. Peak swelling usually occurs around 48 to 72 hours. Use ice packs on the cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first day. You can manage pain with over the counter medicines such as ibuprofen. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side for several days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and a follow up visit about a week later to remove stitches and check healing. Red flags during office hours: increasing pain after day 3, fever above 38 C, or persistent bleeding. For emergencies outside these hours go to local A and E or call 111.

While an apicectomy helps save a tooth, you have other options. The main one is tooth extraction. After removal you can replace it with a dental implant, a fixed bridge, or a removable partial denture. An implant offers a permanent, stable solution but involves more cost and time. A bridge works faster but requires grinding down adjacent teeth. A denture is the most budget friendly option but offers less security. During your consultation Dr. Reddy will discuss the pros and cons of each choice for your situation, staying true to our aim of preserving natural teeth wherever possible.

To choose what fits you best, consider asking these questions during a consultation with us or another North London practice. Ask about your success rate with this procedure. Do you use a dental operating microscope and a 3D CBCT scanner for planning? What are the total costs, including consultation, scan, and follow-up visits? What are the risks in my case? How much experience do you have performing apicectomies? Understanding these details helps you decide with confidence.

As a private practice we focus on advanced care without NHS limits. The cost for a microscope assisted apicectomy reflects the training and technology used for high success rates. Prices vary by tooth location and case complexity. A full, transparent quote is provided after your initial consultation and 3D scan. We accept private insurance plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please tell our team if you have coverage so we can help with details. There are no hidden fees in our treatment plans.