Practice Limited to Endodontics in Finchley Central

You may be referred to a practice that focuses on endodontics when you face problems that need advanced skill. These include severe, persistent toothache that keeps you awake, or a tooth that darkens after an injury. Other reasons are a pimple like swelling on the gum called a dental abscess, or long lasting sensitivity to hot or cold. If a previous root canal failed, a specialist is needed for retreatment. Our Finchley centre can handle these complex cases, with the goal of eliminating pain and saving your tooth. We achieve a high success rate, often over 90% for many cases. We focus on fixing the problem, not just the symptoms.

First, you'll have a 60-minute consultation where we use our 3D CBCT scanner to get a precise image of your tooth's root structure. Dr. Reddy will then explain the findings and treatment plan. The root canal procedure itself typically takes 60-90 minutes. After applying local anaesthetic to ensure you feel no pain, a small opening is made in the tooth. Using a high-powered dental microscope for magnification, Dr. Reddy will meticulously clean the infected pulp from the root canals and disinfect the area. Finally, the canals are sealed with a biocompatible material and a temporary filling is placed. You'll return for a 30-minute appointment to have a permanent restoration, often a crown, fitted to protect the tooth for the long term.

A recent patient from near Finchley Central came with intense pain in a molar with curved roots. Their general dentist referred them because the case was difficult. Using the dental microscope, Dr. Reddy navigated the canals and saved the tooth that might have been removed. Another common case is retreatment. A patient from Highgate was referred after a root canal done elsewhere failed after two years. Our 3D scan showed a missed canal, which we cleaned and sealed, ending the chronic infection.

Right after treatment the local anaesthetic wears off after a few hours. Avoid hot drinks and chewing until sensation returns. For the first 2 to 3 days you may feel mild tenderness or a dull ache. This is usually managed with ibuprofen. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth. You can brush as normal, but be gentle around the area. It is important to return for your permanent crown or filling to protect the tooth from fracture and re infection. Red flags: contact us during office hours if you have severe pain after day 3, swelling that spreads to the face, or fever. For emergencies outside these hours call 111 or go to A&E.

Our philosophy is to save natural teeth whenever possible, but it helps to know the other options. The main alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction. While this removes the infection, it creates a gap that can cause teeth to shift and affect your bite. The gap then needs to be managed with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture. An implant is a permanent solution but involves surgery and a higher cost. A bridge is faster but requires preparing the adjacent healthy teeth. A denture is the most affordable option but is removable and less stable. During your consultation, we will discuss honestly whether your tooth can be restored or if another long term option is more predictable.

To make an informed choice about your dental health, here are some key questions to ask any provider, whether at our practice near Finchley Central or another clinic: 1. What is your success rate with this type of procedure? 2. Do you use a dental microscope and 3D imaging for diagnosis and treatment? 3. What are the signs of treatment failure I should watch for? 4. What is the total cost, including the final crown or restoration? 5. What are your qualifications and specific experience with complex root canals? 6. What happens if this treatment doesn't work? What are the next steps? 7. How many appointments will the entire process take?

As a private practice limited to endodontics, we do not offer NHS treatment. The cost of private root canal treatment reflects the advanced technology and expertise required. Prices vary depending on the tooth's complexity—for example, a front tooth with a single canal is more straightforward than a molar with multiple, curved canals. During your initial consultation, we will provide a transparent, all-inclusive quote with no hidden fees. This quote covers the consultation, 3D scans, the procedure itself, and follow-up appointments. Please note the final restoration (crown) is a separate cost. We accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna and can help you with the claim process.