A root canal is a restorative dental procedure that can treat an infected or at-risk tooth. In many cases when a root canal is done at the right time, the tooth can be saved. Avoiding or putting off a root canal can lead to loss of the tooth or extraction.
If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you may have some questions about the procedure. How long does a root canal take? What does the procedure entail? Will I need a crown? How long will the tooth last after a root canal? Learn the answers to these questions and more.
Average Length of a Root Canal Procedure
A typical root canal can take anywhere from 30-60 minutes. That time frame applies to the procedure itself, not any time in the waiting room or in the procedure room. There’s always a waiting period after local anesthesia is applied so that it can take effect before the dentist begins working.
A complex root canal or a repeat root canal could take 60-90 minutes or up to 2 hours at the most. A tooth that has been treated before or that has a complex root canal structure could require more extensive cleaning, which takes more time.
What Does the Procedure Entail?
To perform a root canal, a small hole is made in the crown of the tooth that allows access to the root canal, the inner chamber of the tooth that contains the dental pulp. Dental pulp is a soft tissue containing blood vessels and nerves that sustains the tooth while it develops. The root canal is cleaned out to remove any infected tissue and bacteria, then the tooth is filled with a sealer material that is resistant to infection.
Will I Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
In most cases a crown will be placed over the existing tooth following a root canal to protect the tooth from fracture. The reason for a root canal is often due to severe decay of the enamel, which is what allows bacteria to get in and infect the pulp. A crown reduces the chances of reinfection and the need for retreatment. CEREC Same Day Crown technology allows you to get a permanent crown placed on the same day as your root canal procedure.
How Long Will the Tooth Last After Treatment?
When a root canal procedure is successful, the tooth can last for the rest of your life. The filling inside the tooth is resistant to infection and the support structure for the tooth will hold it securely in place. The most important factor in how long a tooth lasts after a root canal is how well you take care of your teeth. If you brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day, your restored tooth may stay in place for your lifetime. It is also important to go to the dentist for cleanings and exams every 6 months.
Creekview Dental Provides Root Canal Treatment
A tooth that is infected, at-risk of infection, or has sustained trauma may need a root canal. In many situations, Creekview Dental can provide root canal treatment to restore your tooth and allow it to remain in place, hopefully for the rest of your life. We offer CEREC Same Day Crowns for your convenience, allowing you to get a fully functional permanent crown in just one appointment. Let us save your tooth with a simple root canal procedure.
Call 651-738-8204 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
