Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: four minutes
Tooth pain is the worst, right? If you’ve ever experienced that deep, throbbing ache, you might have wondered if a root canal is in your future. But what exactly is a root canal, and how long does it take?
In this blog, we will explain why a root canal treatment is needed, the steps involved in the procedure, and how long it takes.
Table of Contents
- Why is a Root Canal Procedure Needed?
- Steps of a Root Canal Procedure
- How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
- Aftercare and Recovery
- FAQ
- Young Dental Sf Group: Your Dentist in San Francisco, CA
Key Takeaway
Root canals are an effective way to save an infected tooth, with the procedure typically lasting 60 to 90 minutes. While root canals might seem intimidating, they are designed to alleviate pain and restore your smile.
Why is a Root Canal Procedure Needed?
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, becomes necessary when an infection reaches the dental pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.
The infection can be caused by factors like dental trauma, cavities, or repeated dental procedures. If left untreated, the infected pulp can lead to severe pain and abscesses, potentially resulting in tooth extraction.
Steps of a Root Canal Procedure
1. Diagnosis and Preparation
During your initial appointment, a dental specialist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the infection. They may prescribe antibiotics to decrease infection before the root canal procedure.
2. Removing the Infected Pulp
The dentist will numb the area being treated with local anesthesia. This is administered with a small dental needle. If you experience dental anxiety, discuss dental sedation with the dentist before your appointment.
Once the area is numb, the dentist will drill a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp. Using specialized instruments, the infected tissue will be removed from the pulp canals.
3. Cleaning and Shaping
The empty canals are then cleaned and shaped to prepare them for filling. This step may involve using irrigation solutions to eliminate any residual bacteria and infected tissue.
4. Filling the Canals
Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible, rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This seals off the canals and prevents future canal infections.
5. Sealing and Restoring
A temporary filling is placed to seal the opening. You will need to return for an additional appointment to receive a permanent filling or dental crown to restore the tooth’s healthy structure and function.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
The duration of the procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the specific tooth being treated. Generally, a standard appointment takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
However, certain factors, such as the number of roots in the tooth or severe infections, may extend the time required or necessitate multiple visits.
Aftercare and Recovery
You may experience mild swelling and pain after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain medications can help to relieve pain and swelling. Follow the dosage suggestions on the bottle and never exceed the recommended daily amount.
Your tooth may be a bit sensitive after the treatment but this should subside over time. If the sensitivity does not go away or gets worse, contact your dentist.
Do not eat until the numbing has fully worn off to prevent biting your tongue and cheeks. Do not eat crunchy, hard, or sticky foods.
Maintain good oral hygiene; brush and floss everyday.
FAQ
Yes, in most cases, you can drive yourself home after the procedure. The local anesthesia used to numb the area during the treatment does not impair your ability to operate a vehicle. However, if you’ve been given sedation or if you don’t feel comfortable driving due to pain or discomfort, you will need to arrange for someone to pick you up.
Molars, specifically the upper back molars, are generally considered the most challenging teeth for root canal treatment. These teeth have multiple roots with complex and curved canals that can make the procedure more intricate. Their location at the back of the mouth also makes them harder to access and treat.
The nerve is removed from the inside of the tooth. The pulp is essential to the development of the tooth, but once the tooth is fully developed, it can survive without the pulp because it receives nutrients from the surrounding tissues. The root is still engaged with the periodontal ligament and bone which provides nutrients and support for the tooth and root.
Young Dental Sf Group: Your Dentist in San Francisco, CA
Root canal therapy is an effective dental treatment designed to save your natural teeth and alleviate pain caused by infected pulp. At Young Dental SF Group, our goal is to ensure that all dental procedures, including root canals, are as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
If you are searching for ‘the best dentist in San Francisco, CA’ or ‘root canal near me’ we can help! Call (415) 392-8611 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.