Microscope-Enhanced Apicoectomy in Finchley

An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, is advised when inflammation or infection remains in the bone around the end of a tooth after a root canal. You could need this procedure if a 3D CBCT scan shows a cyst or inflamed tissue that cannot be resolved with standard retreatment. It is often the best option to save a tooth that would otherwise be extracted. A recent patient from East Finchley was referred with persistent discomfort months after a root canal done elsewhere. Our CBCT scan found a small missed canal at the root tip, which we treated successfully with a microscope-guided apicoectomy, saving her tooth. Patients are also good candidates if a crown or bridge would be hard to remove for a standard retreatment.

The entire apicoectomy is done with your comfort in mind. First, you have a 60-minute consultation plus a 3D CBCT scan to map the root and infection. The surgical appointment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. We start by ensuring the area is fully numb with local anaesthetic. Then a small gum incision provides access to the bone and the infected root tip. With the dental operating microscope, Dr. Reddy removes the end of the root tip and any infected tissue. The end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed with a small biocompatible filling. Finally the gum is stitched back in place. You return for a brief 15-minute follow-up about 7 to 10 days later for suture removal and a healing check.

Recovery after an apicoectomy is usually straightforward. In the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort. An ice pack on your cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off helps manage this. You will receive pain medication to control tenderness, which tends to peak around day two and then fade. Eat a soft diet for the first few days and avoid crunchy or hard foods on the surgical side. You can brush the other teeth normally but be gentle near the surgical site. Following the instructions carefully supports success. Red flags: contact our practice during office hours (Mon, Wed, Fri 9 to 5, Tue and Thu 11 to 7) if you notice increasing pain after day three, uncontrolled bleeding, a fever above 38 C, or pus at the site. For emergencies outside these hours, go to the nearest A&E or call 111.

Alternatives to the microscope apicoectomy include non surgical retreatment of the original root canal when feasible. This option is less invasive but may not be possible if a complex crown or post blocks access. Another choice is extracting the tooth, which resolves the infection but leaves a gap that then requires replacement with an implant, bridge, or partial denture to maintain function and prevent shifting. While a microscope apicoectomy has a high success rate, these options remain part of the discussion.

To make an informed choice ask questions such as whether the practice uses a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning for all apicoectomies, what their success rate is for this procedure, what postgraduate endodontic qualifications they hold, the total cost including consultation, scan, surgery, and follow-up, the specific risks in your case, what steps follow if this fails, and how much experience they have performing this microsurgery.

As a private practice focused on endodontics, we share transparent costs for all treatments. The fee depends on the tooth's complexity and location. A final quote is provided after your initial consultation and CBCT scan. The quoted fee covers the surgery, all imaging, and follow-up appointments with no hidden charges. We accept private insurance from Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your consultation so we can help you understand your coverage for this procedure.