Microscope Root-End Surgery (Apicoectomy) in Finchley

An apicoectomy is advised when a conventional root canal treatment has failed and retreatment is not possible or has not resolved the issue. You may have persistent pain, swelling, or a gumboil near a treated tooth. It is particularly useful when a post and crown already exists, because it lets us treat the infection from the root tip without disturbing the restoration. For example, a patient from North Finchley with a healthy-looking crown on a front tooth had a recurring infection; an apicoectomy resolved the issue from the root tip and preserved their smile. It is also recommended for complex root anatomy, such as sharply curved canals or blockages that stop traditional treatment from reaching the infection. A 3D CBCT scan at our London practice confirms whether this surgery suits you.

The procedure uses a dental operating microscope and typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. First, the area is numbed with local anaesthetic so you feel no pain. Next, a small gum incision exposes the bone and the infected root tip. The microscope boosts visualization, allowing Dr. Reddy to remove all infected tissue and about 3 mm of the root tip with minimal bone removal. In a recent molar case with hidden canal branches, the microscope helped identify and seal the source of the failure. After cleaning, the end of the root canal is sealed with a small, biocompatible filling. The gum is then closed with a few stitches. This microsurgical approach is less invasive, supports faster healing, and delivers high success rates.

Recovery is usually straightforward. During the first 24 to 48 hours you may notice swelling and mild discomfort, which you manage with over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. An ice pack applied to the cheek for 20 minute intervals helps reduce swelling. Soft foods are advised for a few days and you should avoid chewing on the surgical side. Be careful when rinsing or examining the stitches. You can brush gently, keeping the surgical area away. Dissolvable stitches typically disappear within a week or two. Most people resume normal activities within a couple of days. You will receive full post-operative instructions before leaving our Finchley practice. If pain is severe or does not improve, if you have uncontrolled bleeding, or a high temperature, call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7).

While an apicoectomy is highly effective, other options exist. These include root canal retreatment or tooth extraction. Retreating the canals involves reopening the tooth to clean and seal again. This is often the first choice when feasible, but it may be difficult if a large post or complex restoration blocks access. Another option is extracting the tooth. Removal eliminates the infection but creates a gap that can cause neighboring teeth to shift. The missing tooth would then need replacement with a dental implant, bridge, or denture, which adds time and cost. Our aim is to save your natural tooth whenever possible.

To make an informed choice, consider asking these questions in Finchley: what are the success rates for this procedure in your hands, do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT planning, what are the full costs including consultation, scan, surgery, and follow-up, what is your experience with this specific surgery, what are the risks in my case based on the tooth's location, what happens if the apicoectomy fails, and what aftercare support is provided during healing.

Microscope root-end surgery is a complex procedure that requires advanced training and technology. The cost reflects this expertise. As a private practice, we provide a detailed, personalised treatment plan with all costs clearly outlined after your initial consultation and 3D CBCT scan. There are no hidden fees. The final cost depends on the specific tooth and the complexity of the case. We are a private-only practice and do not offer NHS treatment. However, we accept several private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact our Finchley office at 0203 488 0335 to discuss your insurance coverage and to get a fee estimate.