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How Long Does a Root Canal Take? 

If the thought of a root canal makes you anxious, you’re not the only one. A lot of people worry they’ll be painful, but the truth is modern root canals are quicker and more comfortable than you might expect. So, how long does a root canal take?

Our Point Pleasant dentist explains everything from what to expect during the treatment to recovery time and why a root canal may be the best way to save your tooth here. 

What Is a Root Canal? 

A root canal is a dental procedure to clean out infected or inflamed pulp (the soft inner tissue) inside a tooth. This pulp has nerves and blood vessels; when damaged or infected, it can cause severe pain and discomfort.

How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal? 

If you have any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible: 

  • Persistent or recurring tooth pain
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Swollen or discolored gums around the tooth
  • A chipped or cracked tooth
  • Difficulty chewing or biting down

How Long Does a Root Canal Take?

The short answer is it varies. A simple root canal on a front tooth or canine usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Molars, which have multiple roots, may take 60 to 90 minutes. Sometimes, the dentist may need two appointments, especially if an infection needs treatment before sealing the tooth.

Your dentist’s time estimate may also include steps like placing a dental crown to protect the tooth. 

What to Expect During a Root Canal

You can typically expect the following steps during a root canal procedure: 

  1. Numbing the Area: Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth so you don’t feel any pain. 
  2. Accessing the Pulp: Next, the dentist will create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp. 
  3. Removing the Pulp: Using special tools, your dentist will carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth’s root canals.
  4. Cleaning and Disinfecting: The inside of your tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to remove all traces of infection. 
  5. Filling and Sealing: Once the tooth is clean, the dentist will fill the empty space with a rubbery material called gutta-percha and seal the tooth to prevent future infection. 
  6. Restoration: Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend placing a dental crown or filling to restore the tooth and protect it from further damage. 

If you experience any discomfort during the procedure, let your dentist know so they can adjust the anesthesia or take additional steps to make you more comfortable. 

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Root Canal?

In most cases, the recovery process takes just a few days. However, if your procedure was more complex or you had a severe infection, it could take a week or two. Follow your dentist’s instructions for post-procedure care to ensure a smooth recovery. 

What to Expect

After treatment, you may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area; this is normal and usually goes away within a few days. During recovery, you might notice: 

  • Slight pain or soreness around the treated tooth
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures 
  • Swelling or inflammation of the gums

Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage discomfort. They might also advise against chewing on the treated tooth until it heals. 

Root Canal Alternatives

If you’re not keen on the idea of a root canal, a few other options may include: 

Tooth Extraction

Sometimes, the best course of action is to extract the affected tooth altogether. This is more invasive and costly, and you’ll need to replace the missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or partial denture.

Indirect Pulp Capping

For minor tooth decay, your dentist may recommend an indirect pulp capping procedure. This treatment involves removing only the decayed portion of the tooth and sealing the healthy pulp to prevent further damage and sensitivity.

Dental Fillings

A simple dental filling might fix the damaged or decayed tooth if the pulp isn’t infected. Talk with your dentist to find the best option for your situation. A root canal is often the most effective and long-lasting way to save your natural tooth. 

Need a Root Canal Dentist in Point Pleasant, NJ?

Do you think you might need a root canal? Are you looking for a trusted dental professional in the Point Pleasant, NJ, area? Look no further than the team at Coastal Dental Group! Our experienced dentists provide compassionate, high-quality care to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Don’t let fear stop you from getting the treatment you need. Call 732-714-1030 or contact us today to schedule an appointment!

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!