A root canal treatment could be the key to saving your tooth from infection and relieving your discomfort. Of course, you’ll naturally want to be as prepared as possible for the procedure, and part of that is making sure you have a clear idea of what the timeline will look like. Just how long can you expect your root canal treatment to take? Here are the basics of what you need to know.
What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment?
Your dentist will begin the root canal treatment process by numbing your mouth with a local anesthetic. Then they will create an opening in your tooth. Any damaged or infected tissue will be removed, and the inside of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned. Some medication may be placed to fight any bacteria that might still be present in the tooth. After the cleaning process is complete, the tooth is refilled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
How Long Does It Normally Take to Perform Root Canal Treatment?
Oftentimes, the root canal process can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. The amount of time needed to complete the procedure can vary depending on the tooth in question. For example, a root canal treatment involving the front teeth can potentially be done in about 45 to 60 minutes; meanwhile, a treatment for the molars can take 90 minutes or more since they have a greater number of canals that need to be cleaned.
It’s worth noting that root canal treatments can often be completed in just one visit. However, in more severe cases, a second appointment could be required.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Root Canal Treatment?
It can take around 6 to 10 days to fully recover from a root canal treatment. There may be some discomfort at first, so take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen if you need to. (Remember to carefully follow any directions related to dosage.) Over time, the discomfort should fade on its own; if it grows worse or lasts longer than expected, something may have gone wrong, so call your dentist as soon as possible.
If you don’t want the recovery process to last longer than necessary, you need to take good care of your mouth after a root canal treatment. Maintain a diet of soft foods until a permanent crown can be placed on the treated tooth. Make a point of practicing good oral hygiene; you can brush and floss like you normally would, but be gentle around the treatment area.
Whether you need a root canal treatment or another kind of dental procedure, it’s important to have a firm grasp on what to expect. Be sure to let your dentist know if you have any further questions regarding the timeline of your treatment as well as any other important details.
About the Author
At Peterson & Cammack Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our dental experts have years of experience when it comes to creating healthy, functional smiles that our patients can be proud of. We offer same-day emergency appointments, and we can treat painful, infected teeth with comfortable, effective root canal treatments. To schedule a consultation at our practice in Lacey, visit our website or call (360) 459-4420.