No individual would like to go to a dental surgery appointment knowing it will take a lot of time. A root canal is among the procedures that can take longer than cavity filling because of the steps involved in it. Although a simple root canal is quick when we talk about the complex one, it depends on the type of your teeth that treatment and also the number of teeth.
Are you thinking about how long a root canal takes? Read on to learn more about root canal therapy, what’s involved in the procedure, and how long it takes.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy, or simply root canal, is a standard oral healthcare procedure involving the removal of dead, damaged or infected root pulp. With the help of this procedure, it is possible to avoid abscesses; therefore, the patient doesn’t need to get the tooth extracted.
Although it is essential to visit the dentist to diagnose root pulp infection, a few signs can be helpful for you to determine that you may have a root pulp infection. If you experience any such symptoms, you must set an appointment with the dentist. The signs include:
- Discolouration of your tooth.
- Feeling pain when you bite or chew.
- Swelling to your nearby gums.
- You have a severe toothache.
What is Involved in the Root Canal Procedure?
Root canal therapy involves the following steps:
- The dentist begins by numbing the entire area that surrounds the tooth. There is also an option of sedation to keep the patient comfortable for those who have difficulty getting numb.
- In the next step, the dentist accesses the pulp chamber by creating a small opening in the tooth.
- Now the pulp and the infection are carefully removed, and all the area inside your tooth is carefully disinfected and rinsed. If the condition is severe, you may get medication inside the tooth to kill it.
- Next, the root canal is filled and then sealed with resin so there is no reinfection in the tooth’s structure. The dentist may recommend a dental crown to protect your tooth from restoring its function.
How Long Does a Root Canal Procedure Take?
It would help to consider ‘how long does a root canal take?’. The length of the root canal procedure depends on two main factors, i.e., how bad the infection is and the number of roots in a tooth. Usually, you may need two to three visits for the entire procedure, and each visit can vary between 30 to 90 minutes. A quick rundown on the average time on each tooth might be helpful for you.
- Canines and Incisors
These teeth typically take 45 to 60 minutes and have only a single root.
- Molars
Molars can take 90 minutes or more time. They can have up to four roots, and their location is correct at the back of the mouth.
- Premolars
Premolars are placed between the molars and the anterior teeth. They come with one or two roots and can take around an hour.
It is worth mentioning that you will need more time if the tooth requires a dental crown. Usually, you have to make another appointment for this particular step, as you need time for the tooth to heal before the crown gets permanently placed on it.
Root Canal Procedures in Bentleigh East, VIC, Australia
Although each case differs, the root canal procedures usually take around three appointments. Our dentist in Bentleigh East are committed to making your root canal procedure as comfortable, painless and convenient as possible. Our specialists in staff and flexible scheduling make it possible for you to get affordable and high-quality dental care.
If you want to know how long a root canal takes or if you have any root canal symptoms, contact us today to book an appointment.
