Apicoectomy Costs and Procedure in East Finchley

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Apicoectomy Costs and Procedure in East Finchley

About This Article

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, written by our experienced dental team at Finchley Dentist.

Dr. Ashok Reddy

Dr. Ashok Reddy

BDS, MFGDP(UK), MSc (Endodontics)

Principal Dentist with over 20 years of experience providing exceptional dental care in Finchley.

If you have persistent tooth pain after a root canal, an apicoectomy might save the tooth. At our private practice in East Finchley we focus on complex procedures to preserve natural teeth. Dr. Ashok Reddy, who holds an MSc in Endodontics, uses 3D CBCT scanning to diagnose and treat issues at the root tip. This page explains the apicoectomy procedure, recovery expectations, and a clear breakdown of costs for patients in East Finchley and across North London.

When is an Apicoectomy Necessary?

An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, is recommended when a conventional root canal treatment fails and infection or inflammation remains near the root tip. You may be a candidate if you have a persistent toothache, swelling, or an abscess that has not resolved. It is often the last option to save a tooth before extraction. For example, a patient from North Finchley came to us with a molar that remained painful months after a root canal elsewhere. Our 3D CBCT scan showed a tiny untreated canal at the root tip causing the infection. An apicoectomy allowed us to clean and seal that area, saving the tooth. This procedure is also ideal when re treating a root canal through a crown or bridge is difficult or risks damaging the restoration.

The Apicoectomy Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide

The apicoectomy is precise and methodical. You will have a 60 minute consultation with a 3D CBCT scan that maps your tooth’s root structure. The surgery itself lasts 60 to 90 minutes. We numb the area with local anaesthetic so you feel pressure but no pain. Dr. Reddy makes a small gum incision to reach the root tip. Using a dental operating microscope for high magnification, he removes the infected tissue and the end of the root. The cleaned root canal is sealed with a small filling to prevent future infection. The gum tissue is then sutured. You will return in 7 to 10 days for a short follow up to remove the stitches and check healing.

Understanding Apicoectomy Costs in East Finchley

The cost reflects the advanced technology and expertise involved. At our East Finchley practice, apicoectomy treatment typically starts from £950. This fee includes the initial consultation and assessment, all necessary 3D CBCT scans for diagnosis and planning, the surgical procedure performed with a dental operating microscope, and all follow-up appointments including suture removal. There are no hidden fees. We are a fully private practice and do not offer NHS services. We do accept plans from major private insurers such as Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please contact your provider to confirm coverage for endodontic surgery. After your initial consultation, we provide a detailed treatment plan and a personalised cost breakdown.

What to Expect After Your Apicoectomy: Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery is usually straightforward. For the first 24 to 48 hours you may have some swelling and discomfort. Manage this with over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen and by applying an ice pack to the cheek for 20 minutes at a time. Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, and smoothies for a few days and avoid chewing on the treated side. Keep the area clean by rinsing with warm salt water after meals and avoid vigorous brushing at the surgical site for the first week. Most people return to normal activities within a couple of days. Red flags that require immediate contact include increasing pain after day three, persistent bleeding, fever, or severe swelling. Call our practice during office hours at 0203 488 0335.

Alternatives to Consider

While an apicoectomy helps save a tooth, you have other options. The main alternative is non surgical root canal retreatment. This means reopening the tooth, removing the old filling, and re cleaning and sealing the canals. This route may be chosen if the initial root canal was not completed to a high standard. The second alternative is tooth extraction. This is a last resort since our goal is to keep natural teeth whenever possible. If a tooth is removed it would need replacement with a dental implant or a bridge to restore function and prevent shifting of other teeth. During your consultation we discuss the pros and cons of each option based on your clinical situation.

Questions to Ask Any Dentist About Apicoectomy

To make an informed choice, consider these questions when you speak with any provider in North London. What is the long term success rate for this procedure in your hands? Does the quoted cost include the initial 3D CBCT scan and all follow up visits? Do you use a dental operating microscope for the surgery? What are the risks specific to my tooth location? If this fails what would come next? What postgraduate qualifications do you have in endodontics? Can I see examples of similar cases you have treated?
Key Takeaways
  • An apicoectomy is a minor surgical procedure to treat infection at the root tip when a root canal has failed.
  • Costs at our East Finchley practice start from around £950, including the essential 3D CBCT scan.
  • The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and is not painful.
  • Recovery typically involves a few days of manageable swelling and discomfort.
  • Our practice is limited to endodontics, focusing on saving natural teeth with advanced techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions

Book Your Apicoectomy Consultation in East Finchley

If you're concerned about a persistent tooth infection, let's find a solution to save your tooth. Contact our dedicated team to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ashok Reddy. Call us on 0203 488 0335 or visit our practice at 26 Southern Road, London, N2 9JG, just a 5-minute walk from Finchley Central Station.

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