Microscope Endodontic Surgery for West Finchley Patients

This procedure, called an apicoectomy, is not a first line treatment. It is recommended when a prior root canal failed and retreatment isn't possible or unlikely to work. You may be a candidate if a 3D CBCT scan shows issues at the root tip. Common reasons include a persistent infection forming an abscess, a cyst around the tip, or complex root anatomy that prevented proper cleaning during the initial root canal. Many patients from West Finchley choose this option to relieve long standing pain and save a tooth that might otherwise be extracted.

The process is precise. We start with a 60 minute consultation using a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth root. The surgery itself lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic so you feel no pain during the procedure. A small incision is then made in the gum to access the root tip. Dr. Reddy uses the dental operating microscope to remove the infected tissue and the last few millimetres of the root tip. The canal is cleaned and sealed from the bottom up with a biocompatible filling. Finally the gum is stitched back in place. A follow up visit is scheduled for 7 to 10 days later to check healing and remove stitches.

Doing this without a microscope is like performing surgery in the dark. The dental operating microscope provides bright light and up to 25x magnification, letting us see tiny details invisible to the naked eye. This helps us find and clean all infected canal branches, ensure a proper seal, and limit tissue removal. The result is higher success rates, often over 90 percent for microscope assisted procedures, and faster, more predictable healing. For example, a West Finchley patient had a persistent infection on an upper molar. The microscope helped us identify a tiny, previously untreated fourth canal at the root tip, which was the source of the problem. This level of detail ensures we address the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Recovery plays a key role in the treatment's success. In the first 24 to 48 hours you may have some swelling and mild to moderate discomfort, which you can manage with over the counter pain relief like ibuprofen. Use ice packs for about 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling. Stick to soft foods such as soup, yogurt, and smoothies for a few days. Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours. Keep the area clean but avoid brushing the surgical site directly until your follow-up appointment. A teacher from the area who recently had this surgery was back at work within two days, managing discomfort with standard painkillers. Red flags requiring a call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) include increasing pain after day 3, persistent bleeding, or a fever above 38°C. For out of hours emergencies, please visit A&E or call 111.

While apicoectomy is highly effective, it helps to know your options. The main alternatives are: Root Canal Re-treatment, which is often preferred when feasible. It involves reopening the tooth from the crown, removing the old filling, and re-cleaning the canals. However, it may not be possible if a post or complex crown blocks access. Tooth Extraction is the last resort. It removes the infection but leaves a gap that can cause other teeth to shift. Replacing the tooth with a dental implant or bridge requires additional procedures and costs. Our practice aims to save the natural tooth whenever possible.

We provide transparent pricing for this private procedure. The cost depends on the complexity and location of the tooth and typically starts from £850. This includes the initial 3D CBCT scan, the surgical procedure, all materials, and follow-up visits. There are no hidden fees. We do not offer NHS treatment. We accept several major private insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Contact our reception to discuss your plan and get a personalised estimate.

To make an informed choice, here are key questions to ask any provider in the West Finchley area: Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanner for this surgery? What is your success rate with this procedure? What are the total costs, including scans and follow-up visits? Who performs the surgery and what postgraduate training do they have in endodontics? What are the risks in my case, and what is the alternative if this fails? What type of filling material do you use to seal the root tip?