Root-End Surgery (Apicoectomy) Costs in East Finchley

The cost of a private root-end surgery (apicoectomy) in London typically ranges from £900 to £1,500. The final price depends heavily on the specific tooth and the complexity of the case. For example, a front tooth (incisor) is generally more straightforward and less expensive to treat than a back tooth (molar), which has multiple roots. At our East Finchley practice, we provide a detailed, all-inclusive quote after an initial consultation and a 3D CBCT scan. This scan is essential for us to see the root's anatomy and any persistent infection with complete clarity. Our fees reflect the use of advanced technology like dental operating microscopes and the postgraduate qualifications of Dr. Ashok Reddy (MSc Endodontics).

Our pricing is clear. The quote for your apicoectomy covers the surgical procedure under local anaesthetic, all necessary 3D imaging (CBCT scan), the biocompatible root-end filling material, and all follow-up appointments to monitor healing. We accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna, and our team can help you understand your coverage. Keep in mind, this is a highly specialised procedure designed to save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction and a more costly replacement like an implant.

An apicoectomy is recommended when a conventional root canal treatment has failed and infection or inflammation remains at the tip of the tooth’s root. You might need this procedure if a 3D scan shows a persistent cyst or abscess that isn’t healing, or if the root’s anatomy is complex with tiny canals that couldn’t be cleaned during the initial treatment. It can also be the best option when retreatment of the root canal isn’t possible, such as when a large post and crown cannot be safely removed without risking tooth fracture. This approach lets us address the problem at its source and give your tooth the best chance of survival.

The process is designed with your comfort in mind. You’ll have a 60-minute consult that includes a 3D CBCT scan. The surgical appointment typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. We start by numbing the area with local anaesthetic. Then a small gum incision provides access to the bone and the infected root tip. Using a dental operating microscope for clear magnification, Dr. Reddy removes the infected tissue and the last few millimetres of the root tip. The end of the root canal is cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible filling. Finally, the gum is closed with tiny stitches that often dissolve on their own.

After the procedure, you may notice some swelling and mild discomfort for a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen usually helps. Apply ice for 20 minutes at a time and eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, and smoothies. Avoid heavy activity for a couple of days. Most people can return to work the next day. Stitches typically come out or dissolve within a week. Red flags to watch for during office hours are persistent bleeding, increasing pain after day three, or a fever. If you need help after hours, go to A&E or call 111.

An apicoectomy has a high success rate, but you have options. The main alternative is tooth extraction, followed by replacement with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture. While extraction may seem simpler at first, the long-term cost and treatment time for replacement are often greater than saving the tooth with an apicoectomy. In some cases, a non-surgical retreatment of the original root canal may be possible, which we can evaluate during your consult. We aim to preserve natural teeth whenever possible.

To make a well informed choice, consider asking these questions during a consultation. What is your success rate with this procedure? Does the quoted cost include the initial 3D scan and all follow-up visits? Do you use a dental operating microscope for the surgery? What signs indicate the procedure has succeeded? What qualifications and experience do you have with complex root-end surgery? What happens if the apicoectomy fails?