Hearing that you need a root canal may not be the most exciting thing to learn. Many people get a bit stressed when thinking about this procedure, but it’s actually fairly common and straightforward. It helps take care of an infected tooth, but you may wonder how much time you should set aside for this treatment. Keep reading to learn what factors can affect how long it all takes.
How Long Are Root Canals Typically?
On average, getting a root canal can take about 60 to 90 minutes. Which is true for you is a bit harder to pinpoint, as there are several things that can make it a bit longer or shorter compared to other people. Here is what you should know:
- Depending on the type of tooth being treated, it can influence how long the timeline is. For instance, your front teeth generally have just a single root, while your back teeth (such as your molars) may have multiple. That means your dentist may need a bit more time to ensure they get all of the damaged inner pulp.
- The infection’s severity can also dictate how quick the treatment is. If it’s across multiple teeth, then your provider will want to take longer to clean and disinfect everything.
- You will be given a local anesthetic before the procedure starts, so your dentist will wait for the numbing effect to take place before starting. They want to make sure you are comfortable the entire time.
Would I Need Multiple Visits?
That being said, there are some cases where you have to come in for a couple of rounds of treatment. Spreading it across multiple appointments can help keep the integrity of your tooth and make sure it heals properly and stays as strong as it can. You will be told if this scenario applies to you beforehand, so it won’t come as a surprise!
Regardless, a root canal doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor. Using state-of-the-art technology and tools, they have become much faster, effective, and comfortable than ever before. Many people even say it feels similar to a regular filling! It’s normal to still be nervous before any type of procedure, so feel free to reach out to your dental office with any questions or concerns you have.
