Microscope Endodontic Surgery in East Finchley (Apicoectomy)

Endodontic surgery is not a first-line treatment. It is typically recommended when a conventional root canal has failed or isn't possible. You might be a candidate if you have a persistent infection that doesn't resolve, if there's a cyst at the root tip of your tooth, or if complex root anatomy, like a sharply curved canal, prevents a standard root canal from being effective. For example, a patient from Muswell Hill came to us with a lingering infection a year after treatment elsewhere; a 3D CBCT scan revealed a tiny, uncleaned canal branch that only an apicoectomy could address. The procedure is focused on treating the infection directly at the source—the tip of the tooth's root—to finally resolve the issue and save the tooth from extraction.

Performing surgery on a tooth root tip requires incredible precision. This is where the dental operating microscope becomes essential. Dr. Reddy, who holds an MSc in Endodontics, performs all surgical procedures with up to 25x magnification. This enhanced view allows him to see intricate details invisible to the naked eye, such as hairline fractures or accessory canals that may be causing the infection. It ensures that the infected tissue is completely removed and the root tip is perfectly sealed. This level of accuracy significantly increases the long-term success rate of the surgery, which stands at over 90% in modern practices, and minimises damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It's the difference between a good outcome and a great one.

Your treatment process is planned for comfort and clarity. First, you'll have a 60-minute consultation including a 3D CBCT scan to precisely map the tooth's root structure and plan the surgery. The surgical appointment itself typically takes 60-90 minutes. Dr. Reddy will administer a local anaesthetic to completely numb the area. A small incision is then made in the gum to access the root tip. The infected tissue and the very end of the root are removed, and a small filling is placed to seal the canal. Finally, a few stitches are placed to help the gum heal. You'll return for a follow-up appointment in about 7-10 days to have the stitches removed and check on your healing.

Proper aftercare is key to a smooth recovery. For the first 24-48 hours, you can expect some swelling and mild discomfort. Applying an ice pack to your cheek for 20-minute intervals can help manage swelling, and over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen are usually sufficient for any pain. You should stick to soft foods for a few days and avoid chewing on the surgical side. It's important to keep the area clean by rinsing gently with saltwater after 24 hours. Most patients feel back to normal within a week. Red flags requiring immediate contact: Call our practice immediately if you experience severe, increasing pain after day 3, uncontrolled bleeding, a high fever (above 38°C), or pus from the surgical site. Please note this is for office hours only (Mon/Wed/Fri 9am-5pm, Tue/Thu 11am-7pm). For emergencies outside these times, please call 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

While an apicoectomy is highly effective, it's good to know your options. One alternative is a non-surgical root canal retreatment, where the original root filling is removed, the canals are re-cleaned, and the tooth is refilled. This may be suitable if the initial treatment failed due to an incomplete seal. The other main alternative is tooth extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge. An implant is a permanent solution but is more invasive and costly, requiring a longer healing time. An extraction is a last resort, as our practice philosophy is always to save natural teeth whenever possible. We'll discuss the pros and cons of each option for your specific case during your consultation.

The cost of microscope endodontic surgery depends on the complexity and location of the tooth. Following a thorough consultation and 3D CBCT scan at our Finchley practice, we will provide you with a detailed treatment plan and a full breakdown of costs with no hidden fees. As a private practice, we do not offer NHS treatment. However, we do accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your appointment, and our team will be happy to assist you with any necessary paperwork and explain your coverage.

To choose what’s right for you, it is important to ask questions, whether you are consulting with us or another practice in North London. Consider asking: - What is the long-term success rate for this procedure in your hands? - Do you use a dental microscope for all surgical endodontic procedures? - What does the fee include? Does it cover the initial scan and all follow-up visits? - What are the risks involved, and what is the alternative if this surgery fails? - What are your qualifications for performing this advanced procedure? - Can you show me before-and-after images of similar cases you’ve treated?