If you’ve been told you need a root canal, one of the first questions you may ask is, “How long does a root canal take?” It’s a common concern, especially if you’re worried about time off work, school, or other responsibilities. The good news is that root canal treatment is often quicker and more comfortable than many people expect.
At James A. Penney, III, DDS, we understand that your time and comfort matter. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to how long the procedure may take.
Typical Length of a Root Canal
On average, a standard root canal can take 60 to 90 minutes to complete. In many cases, the entire procedure can be finished in one appointment. However, more complex cases may require additional time or a second visit.
Several factors affect how long a root canal takes, including:
Tooth location: Front teeth usually have one canal, while molars in the back can have three or more, which adds time.
Tooth condition: A tooth with significant infection or previous dental work may take longer to treat.
Complexity of the root system: Some teeth have curved or narrow canals, which require extra precision.
One Visit or Two Visits?
Many patients complete their treatment in a single visit. However, in some situations, such as severe infection or retreatment of a tooth that’s had a root canal before, Dr. Penney may recommend scheduling a second appointment to ensure the best outcome. In such instances, a two-part treatment allows for proper disinfection and medication placement, ensuring that the infection is fully eradicated before the final restoration.
Another common reason for a second visit is the retreatment of a tooth that has previously undergone a root canal procedure. Retreatment can be more intricate because it often involves removing old filling materials, identifying and addressing any missed canals, or repairing existing damage that may have compromised the initial treatment. Dr. Penney prioritizes thoroughness and patient well-being, and will always recommend the approach that offers the highest likelihood of a successful outcome.
The first visit may focus on cleaning and shaping the canals, while the second ensures the tooth is thoroughly disinfected and sealed. This approach helps provide long-term success and comfort.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
When you arrive for your root canal at our Little Rock office, here’s a general outline of what happens:
Comfort first: We’ll use local anesthesia so you don’t feel pain during the procedure.
Careful cleaning: Dr. Penney will remove the infected or inflamed tissue from inside your tooth.
Shaping and sealing: The canals are shaped, disinfected, and filled with a biocompatible material to protect the tooth.
Temporary or permanent filling: Depending on your situation, you may receive a temporary filling or be referred back to your dentist for a crown.
Recovery Time After a Root Canal
Most patients can return to work or normal activities the same day. Mild, temporary soreness is normal and treatable with OTC pain relievers. Following Dr. Penney’s post-treatment instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting results.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
So, how long does a root canal take? While the procedure typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, your exact treatment time depends on your tooth and its condition. The most important thing to remember is that root canal therapy saves your natural tooth and relieves pain, making the time spent well worth it.
If you’ve been putting off treatment, now is the time to take the next step. Call our office today to schedule your appointment with James A. Penney, III, DDS — your trusted endodontist in Little Rock.