Understanding Root-End Surgery Costs in West Finchley

Root-end surgery is not a first-line option. It is usually recommended when a prior root canal fails to heal or becomes reinfected. You might be a candidate if you have persistent pain, swelling, or an abscess around a root-treated tooth that hasn't resolved. It is also an option when retreatment of the original root canal isn't feasible due to complex anatomy, a blocked canal, or the presence of a post and crown that would be risky to remove. A 3D CBCT scan at our Finchley practice allows us to pinpoint the exact source of the problem and determine if an apicoectomy is the best way to save your tooth.

First, you have a 60-minute consultation including a 3D CBCT scan to plan the surgery. The procedure itself takes between 60 and 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy administers a local anaesthetic to fully numb the area. He then makes a small gum incision to access the infected root tip. Using a dental operating microscope for high magnification, the infected tissue and the very end of the root are removed. The root canal is sealed from the end, and the gum is closed with a few stitches. A recent patient from West Finchley had a persistent infection on a molar; the surgery resolved it without disturbing their new crown. You return for a follow-up 7-10 days later for a quick check-up and stitch removal.

Recovery from root-end surgery is generally straightforward. In the first 24 to 48 hours, expect some swelling and mild discomfort, managed with over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Apply an ice pack to the cheek for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, on the first day to minimise swelling. Eat soft foods for a few days and avoid chewing on the surgical site. Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours. Stitches are typically removed after one week. Keep the area clean by rinsing gently with warm salt water after meals starting the day after surgery. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice on 0203 488 0335 if you experience severe, increasing pain after day 3, uncontrolled bleeding, a high fever, or swelling that spreads to other parts of your face. Our office hours are Mon/Wed/Fri 9 AM-5 PM and Tue/Thu 11 AM-7 PM. For emergencies outside these hours, contact NHS 111 or visit your nearest A&E.

The fee for root-end surgery at our private practice reflects the use of advanced technology like CBCT scans and operating microscopes, essential for its high success rate (around 85-95%). A guide price is between £750 and £1,200, depending on the tooth's location and complexity. This fee includes: the surgical procedure, local anaesthetic, all necessary digital imaging including the 3D scan, and follow-up appointments. There are no hidden fees. We are a fully private practice and do not offer NHS treatment. However, we do accept patients with private dental insurance plans from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. We recommend you confirm your level of coverage with your insurer before beginning treatment.

Before proceeding with surgery, it's important to understand your options. The main alternatives are non-surgical root canal retreatment or tooth extraction. Non-Surgical Retreatment: This involves re-doing the original root canal treatment from the top of the tooth. It can be very successful but may not be possible if there is a large post in the tooth or a blockage in the canal. For example, a patient with a perfectly good crown on a front tooth might opt for surgery to avoid damaging the cosmetic work. Tooth Extraction: This is the last resort. While it removes the infection, it leaves you with a gap that can cause other teeth to shift. Replacing the tooth with a dental implant or bridge would be an additional, significant cost, often making tooth-saving surgery the more conservative and cost-effective option long-term.

To make an informed choice, here are some questions you should ask, whether consulting with our practice in Finchley or another provider. What is your experience with this specific procedure? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning for planning? What is the quoted success rate for a tooth like mine? Does the fee include all consultations, scans, and follow-up visits? What are the specific risks involved in my case? What happens if the surgery is not successful?