If you’ve been told you need an RCT, you probably wonder, “How long do root canals take?”
The Short answer to this question is 60 to 90 minutes on average, depending on the tooth location, symptoms and complexity of the tooth structure. It can also take multiple visits at times.
Let’s get you ready for your RCT procedure and go through this quick guide on how long a root canal takes.
What Is an RCT?
Before we discuss about timing, let’s quickly cover what RCT is. RCT is a dental procedure that treats infected or damaged teeth.
During the treatment, the dentist removes the infected pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth), cleans the area, and seals it to prevent further infection.
It’s a standard procedure that can save your teeth and relieve pain.
How Long Does a Root Canal Usually Take?
The duration of an RCT depends on the tooth’s position and the number of roots.
If you need RCT on more than one tooth, your dentist can operate with a root canal drill and treat as many infected canals as necessary.
You can get a quick pain relief appointment at Cypress Towne Dental. A longer appointment can be scheduled later.
Average Time for a Root Canal
You will need a 2-hour appointment at max as normal RCT is or 60 to 90 minutes long
On average, a single root canal appointment lasts about 90 minutes. This includes:
- Preparing the tooth (numbing the area and placing a dental dam).
- Removing the infected pulp.
- Cleaning and shaping the root canals.
- Filling and sealing the tooth.
The procedure might take longer if your tooth has multiple roots (like molars) because there’s more work.
Root Canal Timeline: What to Expect
A root canal isn’t always a one-and-done procedure. At times, it does take more than a few visits to complete. Here’s a general timeline of what you can expect:
First Visit: Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
- Your dentist will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and confirm that you need a root canal.
- If everything looks good, they’ll start the procedure immediately or schedule it for another day.
Second Visit: The Root Canal Procedure
- This is the main event! The dentist will clean out the infected pulp and seal the tooth.
- If your case is complex, this might take more than one visit.
Final Visit: Restoration
- After the root canal, you’ll need a crown or filling to protect the tooth. This is usually done in a separate appointment.
How Many Days Will It Take for Root Canal Treatment?
Most people complete root canal treatment in 1 to 3 visits, spread over a few weeks. Here’s a breakdown:
- Simple cases: 1 visit (about 90 minutes).
- Moderate cases: 2 visits (1 for the root canal, 1 for the crown).
- Complex cases: 3 or more visits (if there’s a lot of infection or multiple roots).
Your dentist will give you a personalised timeline based on your specific needs.
Factors That Affect Root Canal Timing
Not all root canals are the same. Here are some factors that can influence how long your treatment takes:
1. Tooth Location
• Front teeth (incisors and canines) are more straightforward and faster to treat because they have just one root.
• Back teeth (molars and premolars) have multiple roots, so they take longer.
2. Severity of Infection
• If the infection is severe, your dentist might need to clean the area and let it heal before finishing the procedure.
3. Your Dentist’s Approach
• Some dentists prefer to complete the root canal in one visit, while others spread it over multiple appointments.
4. Your Schedule
• If you’re busy, you might need to space out your appointments, which can extend the overall timeline.
How Long Does a Root Canal Procedure Last?
Once your root canal is done, the treated tooth can last a lifetime with proper care! Here’s how to make sure your root canal stands the test of time:
• Practice good oral hygiene (brush twice a day, floss daily).
• Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until fully restored.
• Consult or follow advice from your dentist if you need a crown on the treated tooth.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning.
Final Thoughts
Now that we have discussed all possible time-based breakdowns for a Root Canal procedure, there might still be a few questions that come to your mind.
As you understand, it takes 60 to 90 minutes to finish an average root canal, and you can easily take time out of your busy schedule. Call us and schedule an appointment with the best Root canal Dentist in Cypress to get all the details.
Remember, a root canal is a routine procedure to save your teeth and relieve pain. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist; they’re there to help!
Now that you know what to expect, you can confidently approach your root canal.
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