Treatment for Persistent Tooth Infections in West Finchley

A previous root canal should relieve pain permanently. If the infection returns or lasts, watch for warning signs. Seek an assessment if you have a dull, persistent ache in the treated tooth, pain when you chew, or a small, pimple-like bump on the gum nearby that may release pus. Some people notice swelling or a bad taste in the mouth. These signs suggest the bacteria were not fully cleared. A West Finchley patient recently had a molar treated five years ago but developed a recurring gum boil. A 3D CBCT scan showed a tiny missed canal harboring bacteria, which we treated successfully.

Retreatment is a careful process that usually takes two visits. First you’ll have a 60 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan to map the tooth in three dimensions and identify the infection source. The initial treatment visit lasts about 90 minutes. We numb the tooth, remove the old crown and filling to access the canals, and use a dental microscope to clean and disinfect the canal system. We place a medicated dressing inside the tooth to kill remaining bacteria and seal it with a temporary filling. About two weeks later you return for a 60 minute appointment to seal the canals permanently and prepare the tooth for a new final crown.

After retreatment you may feel tenderness for 2 to 4 days, usually controllable with over the counter pain relief. Avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until the final crown is in place. The tooth may feel different, but severe or throbbing pain should not occur. You can brush and floss as normal, just be gentle around the treated area. In the long term, a retreated tooth needs the same care as any other tooth: good oral hygiene and regular checkups. Red flags requiring contact: call us if you have severe or increasing pain after day 3, significant facial swelling, or a fever above 38C during our office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7). For emergencies outside these times, call 111 or go to your nearest A&E.

Retreatment has a good chance of success, but it is not always the best option. During your assessment we will discuss all viable approaches. Apicoectomy or root-end surgery may be suggested if the infection is at the tip of the root or if a post makes retreatment harder. This minor operation cleans the infection and seals the end of the root. If the tooth is badly damaged, extraction may be the most predictable choice. After extraction we can discuss replacing the tooth with an implant or a fixed bridge.

To make an informed choice about retreatment, consider asking these questions whether you see us or another practice in the West Finchley area: What is your success rate with cases like mine? Do you use a dental operating microscope and 3D CBCT for diagnosis and treatment? Why do you think my first root canal failed? What are the costs for retreatment and the final crown, and are there other fees? What are the pros and cons of retreatment versus an apicoectomy or extraction for my situation?

Retreatment costs more than an initial root canal because of its complexity. The price depends on the tooth and the difficulty. After your initial consultation and CBCT, we provide a fully itemised plan with no hidden fees. For example, retreating a molar with complex anatomy and a post is more expensive than a front tooth retreatment. As a private practice, NHS treatment isn’t offered. We do accept private dental insurance plans, including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your policy details so we can explain your coverage.