If you’ve been told you need a root canal, don’t panic; it’s a common dental procedure designed to save your natural tooth and relieve pain caused by infection or deep decay. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a root canal procedure, including how long it typically takes and how it can help protect your smile.
What Is a Root Canal Procedure?
A root canal procedure is performed to remove infected or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth), clean out the root canals, and seal the tooth to prevent further infection. Without this treatment, the surrounding tissue can become infected, leading to painful abscesses and even tooth loss, which is why it is best advised to get this treated as soon as you can.
Preparing for Your Root Canal
Before starting treatment, our dentist will take X-rays of the affected tooth to assess the extent of the damage and get a clear picture of the root canals. The procedure is usually done under local anaesthetic to numb the area, so you’ll be comfortable and pain-free throughout.
Step-by-Step: The Root Canal Procedure
1. Isolating the Tooth
We will place a rubber dam around your tooth to keep it dry and to prevent any materials from being swallowed or inhaled during treatment.
2. Accessing the Pulp
Our dentist will then open the top of the tooth (the crown) to reach the pulp chamber. All infected or dead pulp is carefully removed. If there’s an abscess (a pus-filled swelling), it can also be drained at this stage.
3. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals
Once the pulp is removed, the root canals are cleaned and shaped using very fine instruments. Since root canals are naturally narrow and vary depending on the tooth, this stage can take time.
How long does a root canal take?
This can depend on your tooth’s complexity:
- Front teeth (incisors and canines) usually have one root canal and take less time.
- Back teeth (molars) have multiple roots and can require two or more appointments to fully clean and shape each canal.
Sometimes, a small amount of medicine is placed in the canal between visits to eliminate any remaining bacteria. The tooth will be sealed with a temporary filling until your next visit.
Final Steps: Sealing and Restoring the Tooth
At your follow-up appointment, the temporary filling and any medication are removed. The root canals are then permanently filled and sealed to prevent reinfection. To restore strength, a final filling is placed.
Since root-treated teeth are more prone to breakage, our dentist may recommend placing a crown over the tooth. A crown acts as a protective cap and helps the tooth function normally. If most of your tooth is missing, a post may be inserted into the root to help keep the crown in place.
How Successful Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is very effective about 9 out of 10 root-treated teeth lasting 8 to 10 years or longer, especially when crowned afterwards. Keeping the area clean and attending regular dental check-ups can greatly increase the success of your treatment.
In rare cases where infection returns, retreatment or a minor surgical procedure called an apicectomy (removal of the tip of the root) might be necessary.
Final Thoughts on Root Canal Duration and Comfort
A root canal procedure might sound intimidating, but it’s a straightforward and highly successful way to save a damaged tooth and avoid extraction. With modern techniques and anaesthesia, it’s more comfortable than ever.
If you’re still wondering how long a root canal will take, the answer will vary based on the tooth’s location and complexity, but rest assured, our dentist will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth experience.
Need more information or want to book a consultation? Get in touch with our team. We’re here to help restore your smile and peace of mind.
