Persistent Tooth Infection Treatment in Finchley

A persistent infection, also called a chronic abscess, stays when bacteria remain in the root canal system. It can happen if tiny canals were missed during the first procedure or if the tooth has complex roots that are hard to clean. A new cavity or a leaking filling can let bacteria reenter. At our Finchley practice we use 3D CBCT to view the root structure and spot hidden issues with precision. This imaging is often needed to diagnose problems that don’t show up on standard x rays.

Consider advanced treatment if signs show the infection is not resolving. A key sign is a recurring pimple like bump on the gum that may drain pus. Other symptoms include a dull ache, sensitivity to biting or pressure, gum tenderness, or recurring swelling. Sometimes there is little or no pain, but a follow up x ray shows the infection at the root tip hasn’t healed or has grown. If you notice these in Finchley, a consultation at our practice can decide if retreatment is needed to save your tooth and end the infection.

Retreatment is more complex than the initial procedure. First you have a 60 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose accurately. The retreatment itself lasts 90 to 120 minutes in one visit. Under local anaesthetic we access the root canal by removing the crown or filling. Then we remove the old filling with dental operating microscopes for high magnification. Next we thoroughly clean, shape, and disinfect the canal system, checking for any anatomy missed before. Finally the canals are refilled and sealed. A temporary filling is placed and you return to your general dentist for a final crown. The success rate for retreatment is typically around 75 to 90 percent.

A patient from North Finchley had a dull tooth ache five years after a root canal. A standard 2D x ray looked normal, but a 3D CBCT scan showed a small fourth canal that had been missed and harbored bacteria. We performed retreatment, cleaned and sealed the missed canal, and his symptoms resolved within a week. Advanced imaging is often essential for a successful outcome.

After the procedure you may feel tenderness for two to four days, which you can manage with over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final crown is in place. You can brush and floss as usual but be gentle around the area. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice during office hours if you have severe or increasing pain after day three, swelling that spreads to the cheek or neck, a fever above 38 C, or an allergic reaction to medication. For emergencies after hours go to A&E or call NHS 111 for advice.

If retreatment isn’t suitable there are options. Apicoectomy or root end surgery may be advised if the infection sits at the tip of the root. This is used when a post in the tooth prevents retreatment. Tooth extraction may be needed if the tooth is badly damaged or lacks bone support. After extraction the missing tooth can be replaced with an implant or a bridge. We will discuss choices based on your clinical situation and preferences.

To make an informed choice, consider these questions whether you see us or another Finchley practice. Ask about the likely success rate for retreatment in your case, whether the dentist uses a dental microscope and 3D CBCT, the costs and what the fee covers, the provider's experience with complex retreatments, the risks of not having the treatment, and any other options like an apicoectomy.

Root canal retreatment is more complex and takes more time, so it costs more. A precise quote comes after a full consultation and CBCT. This fee covers the retreatment itself, but not the final crown which your general dentist provides. As a private practice we do not offer NHS services. We accept several private plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Our team will give a detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees at your consultation.