It’s natural to feel nervous if you’ve just learned that you need a root canal. Many patients get overly anxious because they have questions or aren’t sure what to expect. One common inquiry is about how long the procedure will last. It’s often assumed that this is a long and painful process, but that’s fortunately not the case. Keep reading to learn more about how long it typically takes to get a root canal!
What Exactly is a Root Canal?
To understand how long it takes for your root canal to be completed, it helps to have a clear idea of what happens during the surgery. First, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, so you don’t experience discomfort. Then, they’ll create a small opening in your tooth to clear away any decayed or infected materials.
Once the damage is removed, they’ll rinse the inside of your tooth to ensure there are no remaining bacteria present. They may even take X-rays to verify that nothing was left behind. Once that’s finished, they will fill in and seal your tooth closed.
The final step consists of placing a dental crown to cover and protect your vulnerable pearly white. Usually, your dentist will make impressions and order a customized dental crown from a lab that takes a few weeks to arrive. They’ll provide a temporary version that you can wear in the meantime to keep your smile safe.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take to Complete?
The length of time it takes to finish this entire process can vary based on what type of tooth is being treated. You can safely estimate the following:
- Molars. 90+ minutes. These teeth are located in the back of your mouth which makes them harder to reach, and have up to four roots each. That means there’s more work for your dentist to complete when clearing away the infection.
- Premolars. 60 minutes. These teeth are in the middle of your arch and have one to two roots to contend with.
- Canines and incisors. 45 to 60 minutes. These teeth are easier to access in the front of your mouth and only have one root per tooth.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?
It’s natural to experience mild pain or swelling for several days after your appointment. It shouldn’t be overly severe and should dissipate as time passes. If for some reason you have sharp or consistent aching that doesn’t abate, contact your dentist. They may need to see you again to ensure that everything is healing as intended.
Then, once it’s all said and done, you’ll be able to enjoy using your newly repaired tooth as usual!
About the Practice
At Legacy Dentistry, you and your entire family benefit from several faith-based experts who provide a full range of services under one roof, including root canals. Their compassionate approach puts patients first, so you can expect honest and respectful service. They use state-of-the-art technology for accurate, lifelike results intended to last. If you have a toothache and would like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 723-1148.