Microscope Root Canal Retreatment for North Finchley Patients

Root canal retreatment is needed when the first treatment does not heal or becomes reinfected. You might need this procedure if you have persistent pain, tenderness, or swelling around the treated tooth long after the first procedure. Sometimes there are no symptoms, but a problem shows up on a dental x-ray or 3D CBCT scan, such as a new abscess or an unhealed infection. This happens for several reasons: complex canal anatomy was missed, the initial restoration leaked, or new decay has infected the tooth. If you notice any of these signs, a consultation at our Finchley practice will determine whether retreatment is the right step for you.

Your retreatment starts with a 60-minute consultation, including a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose the problem precisely. The treatment appointment usually lasts 90 to 120 minutes. First, we apply deep local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort. Next, we reopen the tooth to access the filling from the first root canal. With the microscope for strong magnification and light, we carefully remove the old material and thoroughly clean and disinfect the canals. This is where we often find tiny canals that were missed. Finally, we refill and seal the canals and place a temporary filling. You will be referred back to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the tooth. A patient from North Finchley came to us with lingering pain six months after the initial treatment. Our CBCT scan showed a shadow indicating a missed fourth canal in a molar. Using the microscope, Dr. Reddy located and cleaned this hidden canal, resolving the infection and saving the tooth from extraction.

After the procedure you may feel some tenderness and sensitivity for a few days as the area heals. This is usually manageable with over the counter pain relief. Avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until the permanent crown is in place. Most people return to normal activities the next day. The success rate for microscope assisted retreatment is high, typically between 70 and 90 percent, offering a reliable way to keep your tooth. Red flags requiring immediate contact: contact our practice right away if you have severe, increasing pain after day three, significant swelling inside or outside your mouth, or a fever. Call during our office hours (Mon, Wed, Fri 9–5, Tue, Thu 11–7). For genuine emergencies outside these times, such as an allergic reaction or trouble breathing, go to the nearest A&E or call 111.

We aim to save the natural tooth, but you deserve to know your options. A main alternative to retreatment is tooth extraction. After extraction, the missing tooth would need to be replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture to restore function and prevent shifting of nearby teeth. An implant can be a good solution but it involves more surgery and higher costs than saving your tooth. Another less common option is an apicoectomy, a minor surgery to remove the tip of the tooth root. This is usually considered only if retreatment is not possible or has failed. At your consultation we will discuss the pros and cons of each option for your situation.

To make an informed choice about your dental health, here are key questions to ask, whether you speak with us or another practice in North London: - Do you use a dental operating microscope and a 3D CBCT scanner for all retreatment cases? - What is your success rate with this procedure? - What is the full cost, and does it include the consultation, scans, and the treatment itself? - What are the risks, and what happens if the retreatment does not work? - Who will place the final crown after the treatment is complete? - What postgraduate training do you have in endodontics?

The cost of root canal retreatment varies based on the tooth's complexity and the time needed. We provide a detailed, personalised quote after your initial consultation and 3D CBCT scan to avoid hidden fees. This practice is private and does not offer NHS treatment. We accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team will help you with any paperwork required to understand and use your coverage for the treatment.