Root-End Surgery (Apicoectomy) Costs near Finchley Central

An apicoectomy is not a first choice. It is usually suggested when a standard root canal fails to clear infection or retreatment cannot be done. You may need this surgery if you have ongoing pain, swelling, or a gum boil near a treated tooth. It may also be advised when anatomy makes retreatment difficult, for example a blocked or curved canal. We start with a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth and check for remaining infection, to decide if surgery will save the tooth.

First, you have a 60-minute consultation with a 3D CBCT map of the root. The surgery uses local anaesthetic and lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy makes a small gum incision to reach the root tip. With a dental operating microscope, he removes infected tissue and the root tip. A small biocompatible filling seals the end of the root. The gum then closes with dissolving stitches. Modern techniques raise the chance of success to about 80 to 95 percent.

Fees are set case by case since teeth differ. The final price depends on how complex the procedure is and which tooth is treated. An incisor is usually simpler than a molar with several roots. The plan includes use of 3D CBCT and a dental operating microscope for precision. During your visit we provide a clear quote with no hidden costs. We are a private clinic and accept insurance from Denplan, Cigna, and Max Bupa.

After surgery you may have swelling and mild discomfort. You can manage this with over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen. An ice pack on the cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first day helps limit swelling. Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side. Avoid heavy exercise for a few days. Discomfort usually peaks around 2 to 3 days and then settles. Keep the area clean by gently rinsing with saltwater starting the day after surgery.

Complications are rare, but watch for signs. Call our practice during office hours if you have increasing pain after day 3, persistent bleeding that does not stop with pressure, or fever above 38 C. For emergencies outside these hours, go to A and E or call the health service. In the long run the tooth should function normally. Good oral hygiene helps the treatment last.

Before surgery we review options. The main alternatives are root canal retreatment or tooth extraction. Root canal retreatment involves reopening the tooth, removing the old filling, cleaning and sealing the canals. It is often the preferred option if the anatomy allows and the cause of failure can be addressed from inside the tooth. Tooth extraction may be the only option if the tooth is too damaged, fractured, or there is severe bone loss. The missing tooth can be replaced with an implant, a bridge, or a partial denture. We discuss the pros and cons of saving the natural tooth versus extraction and replacement during your visit.

To help you choose, consider asking these questions at our practice or another near Finchley Central: What is the success rate for this procedure in your hands? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT for planning and surgery? What factors influence the cost? What does the quoted fee cover and are there extra charges? What are the risks in my case and what are alternatives if this fails? What is your experience with this procedure and do you have postgraduate qualifications in endodontics?