How Long Does a Root Canal Take: What to Expect During the Procedure

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you may be wondering how long the procedure will take and what you can expect during the process. While the length of a root canal can vary depending on the complexity of the case, typical root canal procedures can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what you can expect during a root canal procedure.

What is a Root Canal?
FAQS
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What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat a damaged or infected tooth. During the procedure, the dentist will remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth’s interior, clean and shape the root canals, and then fill and seal the space.

This process can help save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

Preparation

Before the procedure begins, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth using a local anesthetic.

This will help ensure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Once the area is numb, the dentist will place a small sheet of rubber (called a dental dam) around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva.

Procedure

The dentist will then use a drill to access the inside of the tooth. Using small, specialized tools, the dentist will remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth’s interior. The dentist will then clean and shape the root canals to prepare them for filling.

Once the canals are cleaned and shaped, the dentist will fill them with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and seal the tooth with a filling or crown.

Aftercare

After the procedure is complete, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity in the affected tooth. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

You should also avoid chewing on the affected tooth until the filling or crown is in place. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent future dental problems.

Conclusion

A root canal can help save a damaged or infected tooth and prevent the need for extraction. While the length of the procedure can vary, typical root canal procedures can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

During the procedure, the dentist will remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth’s interior, clean and shape the root canals, and then fill and seal the space. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. With proper aftercare and good oral hygiene habits, your tooth can be saved and continue to function for years to come.

FAQS

How long does a root canal take?

A root canal typically takes one to two appointments to complete. The first appointment is to numb the tooth and remove the infected pulp. The second appointment is to clean and seal the tooth. Each appointment can take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

What should I expect during a root canal procedure?

During the first appointment, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. The dentist will then make a small hole in the tooth and use a series of tools to remove the infected pulp. Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and disinfect the canal.

During the second appointment, the dentist will fill and seal the canal with a rubber-like material. A temporary filling may be placed on the tooth until a permanent crown or other restoration can be made.

Will I feel pain during a root canal?

Root canals are typically pain-free procedures, thanks to the use of local anesthetic. However, you may experience some discomfort after the procedure as the anesthetic wears off. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to manage any discomfort.

How Long Does a Root Canal Take: What to Expect During the Procedure

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