How Long Does It Take for a Root Canal Procedure?
A root canal procedure can help reduce your pain and improve your dental health significantly. If the inside of your tooth becomes infected or damaged, it can cause marked discomfort and may lead to serious consequences, such as the need to remove the tooth or infection in the bone or nearby teeth. Hence, a root canal can be an important treatment to undertake to rectify the issue and preserve your teeth.
If your dentist has recommended a root canal, it is typically not something you can ignore or delay. But you may be wondering, how long will a root canal take? In this blog, we investigate the time involved in having a root canal procedure.
How Many Appointments Does a Root Canal Take?
A root canal is a multifaceted treatment option. It involves a full assessment of the tooth and surrounding area, and then removal of the affected pulp within the tooth, which may include fibres, nerves and vessels. Your dentist will then shape and seal the tooth, and either use a filling or dental crown to strengthen the tooth. The complexity of the procedure means that it generally cannot be performed swiftly.
The time involved in this procedure depends on the extent to which your tooth is infected or damaged, and whether the surrounding area is involved. After the initial consultation and evaluation, you will typically be required to have one to two appointments to complete the treatment. You may need a follow up consultation, too.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
You may imagine that a root canal procedure is traumatic. The myths abound! However, despite it being a multifaceted treatment, it is generally straightforward. The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- A local anaesthetic will be administered to numb the area.
- The dentist will carefully drill a small hole into the affected tooth.
- They will gently clean inside with sterilised equipment.
- The dentist will remove the tissue that is infected or damaged.
- They will rinse inside the tooth several times and possibly add medication to treat remaining bacteria.
- An x-ray will be taken to review.
- Generally, the hole is temporarily filled at this stage. You will then return another day to have the tooth permanently sealed.
How Long Does it Take to Recover From a Root Canal?
On the day of your procedure, it will take approximately an hour for your anaesthesia to wear off, which means you should be careful during that period as you will not be as aware of what your mouth is doing. Many people choose to rest following the procedure, but some can get on with gentle daily tasks.
Your recovery will typically take less than a week. Your pain should reduce over the first few days. Your dentist will inform you of steps you must take to promote healing, such as what foods to eat and how to clean your teeth. If your pain increases or you experience other symptoms such as bleeding, please contact us straight away.
The Time Involved in a Root Canal
The time it takes to perform the procedure depends on the severity of the infection or damage. The type of tooth that is affected also impacts the time. The molars have up to four canals within them, which means it will take longer to deal with. Premolars have one or two, and canine and incisor teeth have one root.
A simpler treatment may take between 30 to 60 minutes, while a more complex treatment could take approximately 90 minutes. Your dentist will be able to give you an idea of how long your appointments may be at your initial consultation.
Are Root Canal Appointments Painfilled?
Many people envisage severe discomfort when thinking about the root canal procedure. However, there is good news!
You are likely experiencing pain because of the infected tooth, and root canals help to release you from that. Your dentist will use a local anaesthetic to completely numb the area before beginning the procedure. This may feel uncomfortable but only briefly. You will not be able to feel what the dentist is doing during the treatment, apart from moving your lips and tongue about. There may be mild to moderate pain for a few days following the procedure, but this is generally well controlled with over-the-counter pain relief medication.
Read related article: Everything You Need to Know About Root Canal Treatment
Reliable Root Canal Procedures at Boroondara Family Dentist
If you are experiencing tooth or gum pain, it is important to get it assessed as early as possible. Our dentists are highly qualified and experienced in performing the root canal procedure, making your treatment as simple and stress free as possible. We will undertake a thorough evaluation and determine the best course of action.
If you require a root canal procedure, we will explain what is involved and answer any of your questions. We will work to book your appointments to suit your routine as best as possible. Please contact our friendly team to organise a consultation at your early convenience. We look to supporting you and improving your dental health.
