Dedicated Endodontic Clinic in Finchley for Root Canal Treatment

Seek endodontic care when you notice signals of nerve damage or infection inside a tooth. Common signs include a severe, persistent toothache that wakes you at night or worsens when you lie down. Other indicators are extreme sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts more than a few seconds, a discolored darkened tooth, or tender, swollen gums near a specific tooth. Sometimes a small, pimple-like bump on the gum appears. We urge urgent assessment with these symptoms, as an untreated infection can spread. We offer same-day appointments during school office hours for urgent Finchley cases.

First, you have a 60-minute consultation where we use digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose the problem precisely. Next, during the treatment appointment, which typically lasts 60-90 minutes, we administer a local anaesthetic to ensure you are completely numb and comfortable. Dr. Reddy then uses a dental operating microscope to locate, clean, and shape the root canals inside your tooth, removing all infected tissue. The success rate for initial root canal treatment is generally 85-95 percent. After disinfection, the canals are sealed with a biocompatible material. Finally, a temporary filling is placed, and you should see your general dentist for a permanent crown within a few weeks to protect the tooth long-term.

Choosing a clinic that focuses only on endodontics delivers a depth of experience from handling these procedures daily. We are equipped with technology not found in every general practice, such as dental operating microscopes for enhanced vision and 3D CBCT scanners for complex anatomy. This allows us to treat difficult cases, including teeth with narrow or curved canals and retreatments of previously failed root canals. For example, a recent patient from North Finchley required a retreatment on a molar where a canal had been missed years ago. Using the microscope, we were able to find and clean the fourth canal, saving a tooth that was heading toward extraction. Another patient from Barnet had a severely infected front tooth; our precise, painless approach meant he could return to work the next day with minimal discomfort. This dedicated focus helps achieve high success rates.

After your treatment, expect some tenderness for 2-3 days, which is manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until you have your permanent crown fitted. You can brush and floss as usual but be gentle around the area. Red flags include severe, increasing pain after day 3, visible swelling inside or outside the mouth, or an allergic reaction to medication. Call our practice during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) if you experience any of these. For severe swelling or fever outside hours, contact NHS 111 or visit the nearest A&E.

The only true alternative to root canal treatment is extracting the tooth. Our philosophy is to save natural teeth whenever possible, since nothing functions as well as your own tooth. If the tooth is too damaged to save, extraction is a valid option. After extraction, replace the missing tooth to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting. Replacement options include a dental implant, which acts as a new tooth root, or a fixed bridge supported by the adjacent teeth. Each option has different timelines, costs, and maintenance needs, which we can discuss with you during your consultation to help you decide.

To choose what suits you best, ask key questions whether you consult with us or another Finchley practice. Inquire about success rates for similar cases and whether a dental operating microscope is used for every procedure. Ask if the quoted fee includes all X-rays, such as a 3D CBCT. Clarify what happens if treatment fails and options for retreatment. Finally, confirm whether a permanent crown is included in the cost or if that is a separate service with your general dentist.