Apicoectomy Costs: A Guide for West Finchley Patients

The price for a private apicoectomy in London usually ranges from £700 to £1,200. Final fees depend on factors such as case complexity and the tooth involved. A front tooth is generally easier to treat than a molar at the back with multiple roots. Our fee includes the initial 3D CBCT scan to map root anatomy, the surgery under a microscope, and all follow up visits. After your first consultation we provide a fixed quote so there are no surprises.

An apicoectomy, or root end surgery, is advised when a standard root canal retreatment cannot be done. This happens when a large post and crown cannot be safely removed or when the canals are blocked. The procedure addresses the infection directly at the root tip, a result not achievable with conventional methods in these cases. Dr. Reddy will assess you with a 3D scan to confirm if an apicoectomy is the best option to resolve the issue and keep your tooth.

The procedure is straightforward and focused on your comfort. First, the area is fully numbed with local anaesthetic. It usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Reddy makes a small gum incision to reach the bone and the infected root tip. With a dental operating microscope a small portion of the root tip is removed and the infected tissue cleaned. Then a small biocompatible filling seals the end of the root to prevent reinfection. Finally the gum is closed with dissolvable sutures. Most patients feel pressure but not pain during the procedure.

Recovery is usually quick. In the first 24 to 48 hours you may have mild swelling and discomfort, which you can manage with over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Use an ice pack for 20 minute intervals and eat soft foods for a few days. Avoid strenuous activity for the first day. Stitches dissolve within a week or two. Keep the area clean with gentle rinsing as instructed. Red flags requiring immediate contact: Call our practice during office hours if you have severe or increasing pain after day three, uncontrolled bleeding, or fever. For emergencies outside these hours call 111 or go to your nearest A&E.

While apicoectomy has a high success rate you should know your options. The main alternative is root canal retreatment, which means redo the original root canal. This is often chosen first when possible, with a success rate over 85%. If retreatment is not feasible due to a post in the tooth or a blocked canal, apicoectomy becomes the main option. The other alternative is tooth extraction. That removes the infection but creates a missing tooth that would need a dental implant or a bridge later. We always aim to save the natural tooth when possible.

To make an informed choice here are key questions to ask any provider whether it is us or another practice in North London. First ask if the quoted price covers everything including the consultation, the 3D CBCT scan, the surgery and all follow up visits. Second ask about the success rate with their microscope. Also ask what happens if the procedure is unsuccessful and what the next steps and costs would be. Finally confirm if they accept your dental insurance such as Denplan or Cigna and what payment options exist.