Expert Root Canal Treatment in East Finchley

If you have persistent symptoms that suggest infection in the tooth’s pulp, you should be assessed. The most common sign is a severe throbbing toothache that worsens when you lie down. Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts more than 30 seconds after the stimulus is removed is another clue. A tooth might darken, and the gums near the tooth may swell or feel tender. A small bump on the gum line, an abscess, can form. If you notice these signs, the nerve inside your tooth may be dying or infected and needs attention.

The process is designed for your comfort and the best outcome. First, you’ll have a 60-minute consultation where Dr. Reddy, who has an MSc in Endodontics, will assess your tooth. This includes a 3D CBCT scan for a detailed view of the root canals. Then, at the treatment visit, usually 60 to 90 minutes, the area is numbed with local anaesthetic. Dr. Reddy uses a dental operating microscope to clean and shape the root canals, removing infected tissue. The canals are disinfected and sealed with gutta-percha. A temporary filling is placed. The success rate for this procedure is typically 85 to 95 percent.

After treatment you may have mild tenderness and sensitivity for 2 to 3 days, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration such as a crown is placed. You can brush and floss as normal, but be gentle around the area. A patient example: a recent patient from Muswell Hill had a molar treated and reported mild tenderness for two days, then returned to work the next day. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9 to 5, Tue/Thu 11 to 7) if you have severe, increasing pain after day 3, swelling that spreads to the face, fever above 38 C, or if the temporary filling comes out. For out-of-hours emergencies, go to A&E or call 111.

Our main goal is to save your natural tooth. If a tooth cannot be saved, extraction is the main alternative. After extraction you would need a replacement to prevent shifting and restore function. Replacement options include a dental implant, which is a titanium post that acts as a new root, or a fixed bridge supported by adjacent teeth. These solutions are effective but often more invasive and costly than saving the original tooth. A removable partial denture is another option. During your consultation we will discuss whether your tooth can be restored and explain the pros and cons of each choice.

To make an informed choice about your care, whether you come to us or another practice in North London, consider asking these questions: What is the success rate for this specific tooth? Do you use a dental microscope and 3D CBCT scanning for diagnosis and treatment? What are your qualifications and experience with complex root canal cases? Will I need a crown after the treatment and is that cost included in the quote? What happens if the treatment fails in the future? Do you accept private dental insurance plans like Denplan or Cigna?

We are a private practice and do not offer NHS services. The cost reflects the advanced technology and postgraduate expertise required. Dr. Ashok Reddy (GDC: 85978) has an MSc in Endodontics and more than 20 years of experience. We use modern equipment, including Zeiss dental operating microscopes for better visibility and 3D CBCT scanning for precise diagnosis, especially in complex cases. We accept private insurance plans including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. A full, transparent quote is provided at your consultation with no hidden fees. Case example: A dentist in Highgate referred a patient with a previously failed root canal. Our CBCT scan found a small missed canal. Dr. Reddy re treated the tooth successfully, saving it from extraction. This shows how specialist equipment can change outcomes.