Many patients feel anxious when they learn they need a root canal because they assume it will be a long and painful procedure. If you have a severely damaged tooth, though, it’s imperative to remove the infection to save it as well as provide some much-needed relief. Your dentist will provide a local anesthetic and can discuss other sedation options with you so that you feel comfortable throughout treatment. But what about timing? How long does it take? Keep reading to learn the answer!
How Long Can I Expect My Root Canal to Take?
Everyone’s situation is unique and only your dentist can accurately let you know how long they expect your root canal to last, specifically. The amount of time varies depending on which pearly white needs treatment. Typically, the time frame for each type of tooth is:
- Canines and Incisors: 45 to 60 minutes. These teeth are easily accessible and have 1 root to contend with.
- Premolars. 60 minutes. These are arranged between your anterior teeth and molars and have 1 or 2 roots each.
- Molars: 90+ minutes. These are in the back of your mouth making them harder to reach. They also have 4 roots each, so there’s more for your dentist to do.
During this time, your dentist will numb the area, drill into your tooth to remove the infected pulp, then fill and seal it. Then, you’ll be fitted with a dental crown to protect it from further injury.
How Long Does it Take to Recover Fully?
It’s normal to have some swelling and soreness immediately following your root canal, but that typically fades within a few days. A general healing timeline looks like this:
- The day of: You’ll probably feel some irritation as the anesthetic fades, but usually over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or ibuprofen can address it.
- Days 1 to 2: You may still feel mild tenderness around your tooth.
- Days 3 to 5: You should no longer be coping with noticeable hurting or swelling.
- Days 6 to 10: All discomfort should be entirely resolved.
If after a week or two you still have a toothache, call your dentist. A root canal is a surgical procedure like any other that has possible risks and complications, and your dentist may want to see you to ensure there are no ongoing issues.
Thankfully, it won’t be long before you’re back on your feet and finally feeling pain-free!
About the Practice
At Baldwin Family Dental, you and the entire family benefit from 3 experts who provide a full range of services, including root canals. Their number one priority is to help you feel comfortable while enhancing your oral health and use the most advanced dental technology to do just that. They’re happy to discuss sedation options with you so that you feel calm during your procedure. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (850) 215-0128.