Root-End Surgery (Apicoectomy) Costs in Finchley Central

The starting price of £950 for root-end surgery covers the consultation, all diagnostic imaging including a detailed 3D CBCT scan to map the root, the surgical procedure under local anaesthetic, and all follow-up appointments to monitor healing. There are no hidden fees. The cost can vary with tooth location and the complexity of the root structure. At your consult we provide a precise fixed quote based on your clinical needs. We accept private insurance from providers like Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna and can help you understand your coverage.

A patient from Finchley Central came to us with a persistent low grade infection around a molar that had a root canal years ago. A 3D scan showed a small cyst at the root tip that could not be treated with retreatment. We performed an apicoectomy, taking about 90 minutes. The total cost was £1,150 due to the extra work needed to reach a back tooth. The procedure resolved the infection, saved the tooth from extraction, and avoided the higher cost of an implant.

An apicoectomy is advised when inflammation or infection remains in the bone around the end of the tooth after a root canal. It works best when a conventional retreatment is not possible or practical. For example, if the tooth has a new crown and post, reopening the tooth could risk damaging the restoration. You are a good candidate if there is a blockage like a separated file in the canal, or if the root anatomy is too complex for a non surgical approach. The main goal is to save your natural tooth from extraction.

First, a 3D CBCT scan is taken during your 45 minute consultation to plan the surgery with precision. On the day of treatment the area is numb with local anaesthetic so you feel no pain. The procedure itself takes between 60 and 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy makes a small incision in the gum to access the root tip, removes the infected tissue, and seals the end of the root canal. Stitches are placed and typically removed after one week. Because we use a dental operating microscope the procedure is performed with pinpoint accuracy, which supports healing and high success rates, over 90 percent.

Proper aftercare supports a smooth recovery. For the first 24 to 48 hours expect some swelling and mild discomfort. This is normal and can be managed with over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen and by applying an ice pack to the cheek for 20 minute intervals. You should follow a soft food diet for a few days and avoid chewing on the operated side. Keep the area clean by rinsing with salt water after 24 hours. Most patients return to normal within a week. Red flags to watch for: call our practice during office hours if you experience increasing pain after day three, persistent bleeding, a fever, or significant swelling. For emergencies outside these hours call 111 or go to your nearest A and E.

While apicoectomy has a high success rate, there are other options. The main one is tooth extraction. This removes the problem but leaves a gap. You would then consider a replacement like a dental implant from £2,500 plus crown or a bridge. Extraction is a simpler procedure at first but leads to higher long term costs and complexity. Another option is non surgical root canal retreatment, but this is often not possible in cases where an apicoectomy is advised. We discuss all options to find the solution that fits your health needs and budget.

To make an informed choice, here are questions you should ask any dentist, whether it is us or another practice in the Finchley area. What is your success rate with this procedure? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT scanning for planning? Is the quoted price inclusive of all scans, follow ups, and potential complications? What are the specific risks in my case? What is your experience with this treatment, and how many do you perform each year? Understanding these details will help you feel confident in your decision.