Root canals are a common procedure designed to relieve pain and save your natural tooth. Understanding the process can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your appointment.
While every case is different, you can expect the appointment length to be manageable. A root canal appointment can often take between 30 and 90 minutes, and many of these procedures are completed in a single visit. Several factors, like the tooth’s location and the complexity of its roots, can influence the total time.
What Is a Root Canal & Why Is It Needed?
A root canal is a dental procedure that saves a tooth with a damaged or infected pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Infected tooth pulp is often quite painful.
Common Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
- A severe toothache when you chew or apply pressure
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swollen or tender gums near the sore tooth
- A small, pimple-like bump on the gums
- Darkening of the tooth
Your Root Canal Appointment: A Simple Breakdown
We want you to feel prepared for your visit. Our team of dentists on Danforth will walk you through every step of the process. Here’s a quick look at what usually happens during your appointment.
The First Step: X-rays & Numbing
First, we’ll take a digital x-ray to check the shape of your root canals and look for any signs of infection. Then, we use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth to make the procedure more comfortable.
The Main Procedure: Clean & Seal
Once the area is numb, we’ll make a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. We then carefully clean out the inside of the tooth and root canals. After this, we’ll fill the space with a rubber-like material and seal it off. Often, the tooth will need a permanent restoration like a dental crown afterwards to protect it.
Factors That Change Your Treatment Time
The time it takes to complete a root canal can vary. Not every tooth is the same, and a few factors can affect the length of your appointment.
The Location of the Tooth
Front teeth—like your incisors and canines—usually have only one root. Molars in the back of your mouth can have three or more roots. More roots can make the procedure more complex and time-consuming.
The Complexity of the Case
Sometimes, a tooth’s root canals are curved or narrow, which can make them more difficult to clean. If an infection is extensive, it may also add to the time needed to complete the treatment.
How Much Time Should You Set Aside?
Knowing how long the procedure might take can help you plan your day. While the exact time varies, we can give you a general idea of what to expect. This helps you arrange your schedule with confidence.
The Average Time for One Appointment
For a straightforward root canal on a tooth with a single root, you can expect the procedure to take between 30 to 90 minutes. Many root canals can be finished in just one visit.
When a Second Visit Is Needed
For more complex cases—like a badly infected molar—your treatment might be split into two appointments. The first visit focuses on cleaning the infection, and the second is for sealing the tooth. Each appointment typically lasts about 60 to 90 minutes.
Your Comfort During & After the Procedure
Many people worry that a root canal will be painful, but modern techniques and anesthetics make the experience much more comfortable than you might think. Your well-being is our focus. We take steps to help you feel completely at ease, especially if you experience dental anxiety.
How We Manage Discomfort
The goal of a root canal is to relieve pain, not cause it. The anesthetic we use numbs the tooth and surrounding area completely. You might feel a bit of pressure, but you shouldn’t feel pain during the treatment.
How Long Does Numbness Last?
The local anesthetic typically wears off within two to four hours after your procedure. Your lip, tongue, and cheek might feel numb during this time. It’s a normal part of the process.
Life After Your Root Canal
Proper care after your root canal is important for a smooth recovery and helps your tooth heal. Following a few simple guidelines can make a big difference. We’re here to support you through the healing process.
When Can You Eat Again?
It’s best to wait until the numbness has completely worn off before you eat. This helps you avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. For advice on what to eat, see our guide to soft foods after a dental procedure.
Simple Aftercare Tips
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes at first.
- Avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored.
- Brush and floss your teeth gently as you normally would.
- If you have any mild soreness, over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
At Dentistry on Danforth, our friendly team is passionate about helping you maintain your oral health. We take the time to understand your needs and make sure you feel comfortable throughout your visit. Your healthy smile is our priority.
If you have any more questions or think you might need a root canal, our dentists are here to help. Schedule your next visit today.