Expert Root Canal Treatment in Finchley

Root canal treatment is needed when the soft tissue inside your tooth, the pulp, becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, repeated procedures, a crack in the tooth, or trauma. You should seek assessment if you have signs: severe toothache, especially when chewing or lying down; prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures; discoloration or darkening of the tooth; swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms, and the problem shows on a dental x ray. Prompt treatment helps prevent the infection from spreading and an abscess forming.

First you will have a 60 minute consultation with digital imaging and a 3D CBCT scan to diagnose the problem. The treatment uses local anaesthetic and usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy uses a dental operating microscope to see inside your tooth with high magnification, so infected canals are found and cleaned thoroughly. The cleaned canals are disinfected and sealed with gutta percha, a rubber like material. A temporary filling is placed. You will need to return to your general dentist for a permanent crown to protect the tooth long term. Our painless approach helps most patients stay comfortable during the procedure.

A Muswell Hill patient arrived with severe pain and a visible abscess on the gum. Using our 3D CBCT scanner, we found a complex infection in a molar. The root canal was completed in a single 90 minute visit with the operating microscope, providing immediate relief. Another patient from Barnet needed retreatment after a failing root canal done years earlier. Dr. Reddy retried the tooth, resolved the infection, and saved the tooth from extraction.

After treatment you may have mild tenderness for 2 to 3 days, which is usually managed with over the counter pain relief. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration, like a crown, is fitted by your dentist. Eat a soft diet for the first few days. You can brush and floss normally but be gentle around the area. Red flags require immediate contact: severe pain that is not relieved by medication, swelling inside or outside your mouth, an allergic reaction to medication, or if your temporary filling comes out. Please call during our office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9 to 5, Tue/Thu 11 to 7). For out of hours emergencies, visit A&E or call 111.

The only true alternative to root canal treatment is extracting the tooth. While this removes the infection, it can cause surrounding teeth to shift and lead to problems with chewing or your bite. The missing tooth would then ideally be replaced with a dental implant or a bridge. An implant is a long term solution but involves surgery and a higher cost (from £2,500 plus crown). A bridge is faster and less costly initially but requires grinding down healthy adjacent teeth for support. Our practice philosophy is always to save the natural tooth where possible, as it's almost always the best option for your long term dental health. We'll discuss all options with you during your consultation.

To make an informed choice about your care, whether you consult with us or another practice in North London, here are some key questions to ask: what is your success rate for this type of procedure? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D imaging for diagnosis and treatment? How much experience do you have with complex cases like retreatments or curved canals? What is the total cost, including the consultation, scans, and treatment? What is not included? How many appointments will be required to complete the treatment? What are the risks, and what happens if the treatment fails?

As a private practice focused on endodontics, NHS treatment is not offered. The cost depends on complexity and which tooth is affected. Prices are explained fully during your consultation with no hidden fees. The fee covers your comprehensive assessment, 3D CBCT scan, and the treatment itself. The final crown is a separate cost handled by your general dentist. We accept several private plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Contact our team to discuss your plan and coverage.