Advanced Pulp Treatment (Root Canal Therapy) in Finchley

You should get an urgent assessment if you notice signs of pulp damage because this will not go away on its own. The main aim is to save the tooth and stop the infection from spreading. Look for a severe, persistent toothache that may get worse when you lie down, extreme sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts after the source is removed, and tenderness or swelling in the gums near a specific tooth. Some people see a darkening of the tooth or a small persistent bump on the gum that acts like an abscess. If you have these symptoms, we offer same-day appointments during office hours for urgent Finchley area cases.

Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety. First, you will have a 60 minute consultation using digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to pinpoint the problem. Then the treatment appointment usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes and the area is numbed with local anaesthetic. Dr. Reddy will access the inside of the tooth, remove the infected pulp tissue, and clean the root canals under a dental operating microscope for better visibility. For example, a patient from Muswell Hill had a molar with a hidden fourth canal that only showed under high magnification; finding and cleaning it was crucial for success. After cleaning, the canals are filled and sealed. Finally you will return to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the tooth long term.

Post treatment care is straightforward. For the first two to three days you may have mild to moderate tenderness, which you can manage with over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your final crown is placed. You can brush and floss as usual, but be gentle around the treated area. Watch for warning signs. Call our practice during office hours if you have severe or increasing pain after day three, swelling that spreads to the face, a fever over 38 C, or a reaction to medication. If you need care outside of hours, dial 111 or go to the nearest A&E.

Our goal is to save a natural tooth whenever possible because there is no perfect substitute. The main alternative to pulp treatment is tooth extraction. Removing the tooth can relieve infection and pain but creates a gap that may cause teeth to shift and affect your bite. To fill the gap you might consider a dental implant with a crown or a fixed bridge. These options are more invasive and usually cost more than saving the tooth. During your consultation Dr. Reddy will give you an honest view of your tooth’s long term prospects so you can decide whether to save it or replace it.

To decide what is right for you ask questions, whether you are with us or another North London practice. For example: what is the success rate for this procedure on a tooth like mine? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT for diagnosis and treatment? What postgraduate endodontics qualifications do you hold? What are the total costs including consultation, treatment, and the final crown from my general dentist? What are the risks if I delay treatment? A confident provider will welcome these questions and give clear answers.

We are a fully private practice and do not offer NHS services. The cost of root canal treatment depends on the complexity and which tooth is affected, with molars usually being more involved. We provide a detailed quote after your initial consultation and 3D scan with no hidden fees. A patient referred from Barnet for a complex molar retreatment found their private insurance covered a large portion of the cost. We accept private dental insurance from providers such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to help with any paperwork.