Microscope Root Canal Retreatment in East Finchley

Root canal retreatment is needed when a previous treatment fails and the tooth becomes reinfected or inflamed. This can happen months or even years after the initial procedure. You should seek an assessment if you notice symptoms like persistent or returning toothache, tenderness when biting, a pimple-like bump (abscess) on your gum, or new swelling around the tooth. Sometimes there are no symptoms, and the problem is only detected on a dental x-ray or a 3D CBCT scan. Many of our retreatment cases are for patients who want a second opinion on a tooth that has been recommended for extraction elsewhere, as our primary philosophy is to preserve natural teeth whenever possible. The success rate for retreatment is high, typically around 75-90%, especially when performed with advanced tools like a microscope.

Our retreatment process is meticulous and designed for patient comfort. First, you'll have a 60-minute consultation including a 3D CBCT scan to precisely diagnose the cause of failure. The retreatment itself is a single appointment lasting 90-120 minutes. Dr. Reddy will administer local anaesthetic so you feel no pain. Next, he'll carefully access the inside of the tooth, removing the old root filling material. Then, using the dental operating microscope for powerful magnification and illumination, he will search for any untreated canals, remove the persistent infection, and clean the entire canal system. A recent patient from Muswell Hill had a molar retreatment where the microscope helped locate a tiny, hidden 'MB2' canal that was the source of a decade-long issue. Finally, once thoroughly cleaned, the canals are sealed and a temporary filling is placed. You'll then be referred back to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the tooth long-term.

After your procedure, it's normal to feel some tenderness and sensitivity for 3-5 days as the area heals. This is usually mild and can be managed effectively with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. We recommend sticking to soft foods and avoiding chewing directly on the treated tooth for the first week. You can brush and floss as normal but be gentle around the area. For example, a patient from Barnet who had a complex lower molar retreated was back to work the next day, managing the mild discomfort with paracetamol. It's important to attend your follow-up appointment with your general dentist to have the permanent crown fitted, as this is essential for the tooth's long-term survival. Red flags requiring immediate contact: Call our practice immediately during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) if you experience severe, throbbing pain not relieved by painkillers, significant swelling that spreads to your face, or a fever above 38°C. For out-of-hours emergencies, please visit A&E or call 111.

While retreatment is often the best way to save your tooth, there are alternatives. One option is an apicoectomy, a minor surgical procedure to remove the tip of the tooth's root and the surrounding infection. This is typically considered if retreatment is not feasible or has also failed. The other main alternative is tooth extraction. While this removes the problem, it creates a new one: a gap. This gap should be filled with either a dental implant or a bridge to prevent other teeth from shifting and to restore function. An implant is a permanent, standalone solution, while a bridge involves crowning the adjacent teeth. We'll always discuss the pros and cons of each option based on your specific clinical situation and preferences.

To make an informed choice about your dental health, here are some key questions to ask any provider, whether it's us or another practice in North London: - Do you use a dental operating microscope and a 3D CBCT scanner for all retreatments? - What is your success rate with this specific type of procedure? - What training and experience do you have in complex root canal retreatment? - What is the full cost, including the consultation, scan, and the treatment itself? - What are the risks involved, and what happens if the retreatment doesn't work? - Will I need a new crown afterwards, and is that included in the fee?

As a private practice limited to endodontics, we do not offer NHS treatment. The cost of root canal retreatment is higher than an initial root canal because the procedure is more complex and time-consuming. The final fee depends on the specific tooth and the complexity of the case. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed treatment plan with a transparent, all-inclusive quote with no hidden fees. This quote covers the consultation, CBCT scan, the retreatment procedure itself, and any necessary follow-up checks at our practice. We are recognised by major insurers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please inform our team if you have a policy you'd like to use.