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Root Canal Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

Root Canal Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

Do you know how long root canals in Marysville can take? If you are preparing to undergo this complex method of treatment, you will likely be asking your dentist how much time will be required to complete the process and recover at home. After all, you have obligations to tend to such as work and taking care of your family. To help you better plan for your necessary dental procedure, a dental expert shares how long you can expect to devote to repairing your new smile.

What Factors Determine the Length of the Procedure?

Not all root canals are the same. Certain teeth may take longer to fully clean and repair than others. Also, no two patients are alike, so depending on the severity of the infection, it can also dictate how long you can expect to be in the dentist’s chair for root canal therapy in Marysville.

Ultimately, the factors that play a role in the timeline for your procedure include:

  • The tooth in question
  • The severity of the infection
  • The number of roots in the tooth
  • The technology used to perform a root canal

Depending on your dentist, you might contemplate the idea of pressuring them to perform a quick procedure. This is not a good idea, as you will likely end up with canals that are not thoroughly cleaned, resulting in an unsuccessful root canal. Most dentists will explain the reasoning for the appropriate timeline and what can happen if you fast track the process.

What is a Normal Timeline?

On average, you can expect your root canal procedure for a premolar or molar to take anywhere from 1-2 hours, and other teeth will take about an hour.

It is necessary to first provide you with local anesthesia and allow it ample time to take effect before beginning the procedure. This can vary from patient to patient, as some are more difficult to numb than others. Once you are fully relaxed and comfortable, your dentist will then need to identify the various root canals within the infected tooth. But before the irrigating process begins, they must enlarge and shape the canals to ensure adequate room for cleaning.

Once the canals are ready, your dentist will disinfect these areas, which can take about 40 minutes or more before filling the canals with a biocompatible substance. You will then receive a temporary crown to wear while your permanent one is being created. When ready, you will return to have your final restoration put into place.

Depending on your dental professional, they may suggest that your root canal be completed in more than one visit. In most situations, this is not necessary; however, you should be ready if they believe this will be more beneficial to achieving adequate results.

Also, the recovery phase of a root canal will vary among individuals, but it is recommended that you devote at least 3 days to heal at home. If pain continues for 5 days or more, it is best to contact your dentist’s office for immediate assistance.

While a root canal does require a bit of your time, it is most certainly worth it if you can keep your natural tooth in the long run.

Location

6618 64th St. NE, Suite C, Marysville, WA 98270

Office Hours

MON 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

TUE 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

WED 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

THU 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

FRI 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

SAT - SUN Closed

Get in Touch

Email: allencreekdentistry@gmail.com

Phone: (360) 651-2900