How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take? What to Expect at Your Appointment

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you might be wondering how long you’ll have to sit in the dental chair. While root canal therapy has a reputation for being time-consuming, modern techniques and technology have made the procedure more efficient and comfortable than ever. Still, the exact amount of time it takes can vary depending on your specific tooth and the complexity of the infection.

Average Time for a Root Canal Appointment

In most cases, a root canal can be completed in one to two appointments. Each visit typically lasts between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on which tooth is being treated and how many roots it has.

Front teeth (incisors and canines) generally have just one root, so they take less time—often under an hour. Premolars usually have one or two roots, while molars can have three or more, making them more complex and requiring longer treatment times.

According to dental health sources like Healthline, the entire process may take 60 to 120 minutes when multiple canals need to be cleaned and sealed. Your dentist will determine whether the treatment can be completed in a single visit or if a follow-up appointment is needed to finish the restoration.

What Happens During the Procedure

A root canal involves several key steps designed to save your natural tooth and eliminate infection:

1. Numbing and isolation: Your dentist begins by numbing the tooth and surrounding area, then placing a small rubber barrier to keep the tooth dry.
2. Cleaning the canals: The infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth is carefully removed, and the canals are cleaned and shaped.
3. Filling and sealing: Once the tooth is free of infection, the canals are filled with a special material to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
4. Restoration: A temporary or permanent filling (and often a dental crown) is placed to strengthen and protect the treated tooth.

If your dentist places a temporary filling, you’ll likely return for a second appointment to receive your final crown once healing has begun.

Recovery and Healing Time

After your root canal, you may experience mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days, especially when chewing. This is completely normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to normal activities the next day.

Complete healing of the tooth’s surrounding tissue can take a few weeks. During this time, it’s best to avoid chewing on the treated side of your mouth until your dentist places the permanent crown. Once the restoration is complete, your tooth should function just like any other.

According to NewMouth, the long-term success of a root canal largely depends on maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental checkups. With proper care, your treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Factors That Can Affect Treatment Time

Several factors influence how long your root canal may take:

• The number and shape of the tooth’s roots
• The severity of the infection or decay
• The presence of previous dental work or restorations
• Whether a crown needs to be fabricated or adjusted

Your dentist will explain what to expect during your consultation and design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Root canal therapy may take a little time, but it’s one of the most effective ways to relieve pain and save your natural smile.

About the Practice

At Tyler Schaffeld Dental, patients receive advanced, compassionate care designed to protect their natural teeth and restore oral health. Dr. Schaffeld offers gentle root canal therapy using modern technology to ensure comfort and long-lasting results. Our team is here to guide you through root canal treatment, every step of the way.

Call us at (541) 426-3783 or request an appointment online.