Painless Root Canal Therapy in East Finchley, N2

Root canal treatment is needed when the soft tissue inside your tooth, called the pulp, becomes infected or inflamed. This usually happens from deep decay, a cracked tooth, or repeated dental work. Seek an assessment if you have symptoms. The most common sign is a severe, persistent toothache that worsens when you lie down or bite. You may also notice prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the trigger is gone. A tooth may darken in colour, or the gums nearby may swell or feel tender. Sometimes a small pimple like bump on the gum forms, which signals infection requiring urgent attention.

We outline every step. First, you have a 60 minute consultation. Dr. Reddy examines the tooth and takes a 3D CBCT scan to show the root canals in detail. For the treatment, the area is numbed with local anaesthetic so you feel no pain. The procedure typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy uses a dental operating microscope to clean out the infected pulp from the root canals with precision. He then disinfects and shapes the canals before filling and sealing them to prevent future infection. A temporary filling is placed at the end. The success rate is high, typically between 85 and 95 percent, so you can keep your natural tooth for many years.

A common case from East Finchley involves a throbbing ache in a lower molar. The 3D scan revealed a hidden fourth canal that was infected. Using the microscope, we found and treated it in a single 90 minute visit, providing immediate relief. Another patient was referred from a dentist in Muswell Hill for a failing root canal done years ago. The retreatment was complex, but with specialist instruments we cleaned and resealed the tooth, saving it from extraction. Both patients reported only pressure, not pain, during their treatment.

After your treatment, expect mild to moderate tenderness in the area for 2 to 3 days as the anaesthetic wears off and the surrounding tissues heal. This is managed with over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until the tenderness subsides. You can brush and floss normally, but be gentle around the tooth. Schedule a follow up appointment with your general dentist to place a permanent restoration such as a crown to protect the tooth long term. Red flags during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7): - Severe pain that is not relieved by medication. - Swelling that increases after three days. - An allergic reaction to medication. - Your temporary filling feels loose or comes out.

Our philosophy is to save the natural tooth whenever possible; nothing beats your own teeth. If the tooth cannot be saved, extraction is the option. After extraction you need a replacement to prevent other teeth from shifting. Replacement options include a dental implant, a titanium post that acts like a root, or a fixed bridge supported by crowns on the adjacent teeth. While these work, they are more invasive and usually cost more than saving your tooth with a root canal. During your consultation we will discuss whether your tooth is restorable and explain the pros and cons.

To make an informed choice about your dental health, here are essential questions to ask whether you see us or another practice in North London: - What is your success rate with root canal treatments? - Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning? - What qualifications do you have for performing complex root canal procedures? - What is the total cost including the consultation, scan, and treatment? - Will I need a crown afterwards, and is that a separate cost? - What are the risks if I skip the treatment? - How do you ensure the procedure is painless?

As a private practice, we provide a detailed, personalised treatment plan and cost estimate after your initial consultation and 3D scan. The final fee depends on the complexity of the case and which tooth is being treated. We believe in full transparency with no hidden fees. While we do not offer NHS services, we do accept patients with private dental insurance from major providers including Denplan, Cigna, and Max Bupa. Our team will help you with the necessary paperwork to help you claim your benefits. Please contact us to discuss your specific insurance coverage.