How Long is a Root Canal Procedure? An Insider’s Guide
Do You Need a Post and Core After Root Canal?
06/04/2023
Soft Tissue Graft: Understanding, Preparing, and Recovering
06/08/2023
Preparing for something like a root canal can be overwhelming. One common question that many patients have is: how long is a root canal procedure? It could take 60-90 minutes, and depending on complications your tooth might have, more than one appointment is required.
Since no specific length of time can be a satisfactory answer, this article will give you a clearer idea of the timeline involved in a root canal procedure. Understanding the process and what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and prepared.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at saving a badly damaged or infected tooth instead of removing it. Although teeth are made of tough material, they will wear out and be subjected to bacterial attacks if not properly maintained.
The damage begins as the outer protective layer, the enamel, gets dissolved and erodes, exposing the dentin layer beneath it. Dentin is made of tissues, and although it’s tough, bacteria can easily penetrate it. If improper teeth cleaning is prolonged, they can eat away at the dentin, reaching the pulp with nerves and blood vessels, and cause serious damage to this area.
The treatment involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it, then filling and sealing it. It’s named “root canal” because it accesses and cleans the canals located underneath the pulp.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal?
Once the pulp is accessed and damaged, it’s impossible to prevent bacterial activity from causing further damage with a typical daily cleaning routine. If this condition continues, it won’t just cause pain–it can also lead to an abscess, which potentially leads to a life-threatening infection.
A root canal treatment removes the infected area and seals the gateway (tooth cavity) of access to it so bacteria won’t cause any further damage.
Step-by-step Breakdown of a Root Canal Procedure
A root canal procedure can seem daunting, but understanding the steps can help you alleviate anxiety.
Anesthesia Administration
As the procedure involves making access to the pulp, anesthesia is required. It begins with administering local anesthesia to numb the tooth itself and its surrounding area. This ensures that the process is as painless as possible.
Typically, anesthesia is delivered using a dental needle. This is a small needle, so pain is minimal and lasts for just seconds before the numbness starts to take over.
Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canal
Once the area is numb, the dentist will place a small protective sheet, called a dental dam, over the area. This is to isolate the tooth and keep it clean throughout the procedure.
The dentist then uses very small instruments to make an opening in the crown of the tooth, remove the damaged tissues, and use a special solution to disinfect everything. The canal is then hollowed and reshaped so that a new filling can fit in with ease.
Filling and Sealing the Canal
After the space is cleaned and shaped, the dentist will fill the canals with a biocompatible material, called gutta-percha. It’s a rubber-like material that functions to strengthen the root. The gutta-percha is usually placed with adhesive cement, so everything is completely sealed.
Placing a Temporary Filling and Crown
The opening in the tooth is then sealed with a tooth-colored, temporary filling. This filling is removed in the second appointment, and a permanent filling is applied instead.
Usually, the procedure is followed with the installation of a crown. It’s a tooth-like cap made of tough material to protect the weakened tooth and strengthen it.
How Long is a Root Canal Procedure?
The length of a root canal procedure can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the tooth’s structure and the degree of infection. However, on average, most root canal treatments can be completed in one or two appointments, each between 60 to 90 minutes.
The first appointment typically involves the dentist removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth, cleaning the area, and shaping the root canals. If the infection is severe, the dentist may apply medication inside the tooth and wait for it to work before sealing the tooth. This calls for a second appointment.
The second appointment would involve checking on the tooth as well as possible complications, such as calcified canals. To prepare for a crown, the tooth is shaved and rounded off before a temporary crown is installed to it. A permanent crown must be made in a lab and can take up to two weeks. This necessitates a separate third appointment.
Remember, these are general estimates and individual experiences may vary. It’s important to discuss your specific case with your dentist, who can give you a more accurate timeline based on your unique circumstances.
Tips for a Smooth Root Canal Procedure Recovery
After a root canal, it’s normal to experience some discomfort or inflammation. Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help to control the pain. It’s also important to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored to avoid breaking it. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, can also aid in recovery and prevent future dental issues.
Conclusion: Choosing The Right Dentist For Your Dental Problem
We hope this article has answered your question, “How long is a root canal procedure?” A successful root canal treatment seems daunting, but it can save a damaged tooth from being removed and alleviate pain. Choosing experienced, dedicated dentists like the ones at Dr. Edgard El Chaar’s Office is key to a successful procedure.
Contact Dr. Edgard El Chaar’s office now for the best support.
-
- Call Us: 212.685.5133 or 212.772.6900
-
- Contact Us by Submitting This Contact Form
Source
Goel, P., R, V., L, V., Naveen, N., & A K, S. (2022, February 1). THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS OF CURCUMIN IN ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE – A REVIEW. INDIAN JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH, 49–51. https://www.worldwidejournals.com/indian-journal-of-applied-research-(IJAR)/fileview/therapeutic-effects-of-curcumin-in-root-canal-procedure–a-review_February_2022_4061819244_0404302.pdf
Balto, K. (2011, March). Tooth survival after root canal treatment. Evidence-Based Dentistry, 12(1), 10–11. https://www.nature.com/articles/6400772
Mohammed Sarhan, A. (2021, February 11). Two Case Reports of C-Shaped Mandibular Premolars with Three and Four Root Canals. International Journal of Oral and Dental Health, 7(1). https://www.clinmedjournals.org/articles/ijodh/international-journal-of-oral-and-dental-health-ijodh-7-126.php?jid=ijodh
