How Long Does Root Canal Therapy Take? 

Cavities result from tooth decay, often stemming from inadequate oral hygiene. When left untreated, they can progress to the point of causing infection in the tooth. To save the tooth at this stage, a root canal becomes necessary. Many patients report that the procedure is no more painful than having a large cavity filled. If you’re curious about the duration of root canal treatment and recovery, continue reading to find out how long the process typically takes.

How Does Root Canal Therapy Work? 

As mentioned earlier, a root canal is conducted when a tooth is extensively infected. Opting for this procedure is generally preferable to tooth extraction as it not only saves costs associated with replacement teeth but also enables you to preserve your natural bite.

Before the procedure begins, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Following this, a small hole will be made in the tooth enamel to provide access to the infected tissue. The dentist will proceed to clean and sanitize the tooth, eliminating any remaining bacteria.

The next step involves using a biocompatible material to fill the tooth. The process concludes with sealing it using a filling or a dental crown.

How Long Do Root Canals Take? 

The duration of root canal therapy is influenced by the type of tooth undergoing the procedure:

• Molar: With an abundance of tissue and up to four roots, treatment may extend to 90 minutes or more.
• Premolar: Featuring one or two roots and being slightly smaller than molars, treatment typically lasts between 45 to 90 minutes.
• Incisors and Canines: With just one root and being the smallest teeth, the procedure is generally completed within 30 to 60 minutes.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Root Canal Therapy? 

Within a few days, patients typically achieve full recovery from root canal therapy. Initial discomfort or pain near the surgical site may be experienced during the first couple of days post-procedure. Your dentist may prescribe medication to alleviate this discomfort, or they might suggest over-the-counter pain meds for a few days.

If you continue to experience soreness or if your symptoms show no improvement after a few days, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They will assess the situation to identify any potential issues and provide appropriate recommendations or treatment options to address the problem.

About the Practice 

Discover a team dedicated to preserving beautiful smiles at Signature Smiles, led by Dr. Hiren Shah in the Edison area. Providing a variety of treatments, including root canals for severe tooth infections, they are committed to educating you on optimal smile care to prevent future issues. With their help, you can keep your smile strong and healthy fort he foreseeable future. If you want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shah or to more information on root canal treatment, then you can call Signature Smiles’ office at (908) 829-0986 or visit their website.