How Long Does a Root Canal Take? Step-by-Step Timeline Explained

TL;DR

• A root canal treatment is a dental procedure done to save an infected or badly damaged tooth.
• It involves the removal of the pulp (soft tissue inside the tooth), cleaning and shaping, and filling it with a rubber-like material.
• The step-by-step timeline involves the following:
  
  • Initial checkup (10-15 minutes)
  • Numbing the tooth (5-10 minutes)
  • Opening the infected tooth (10 minutes)
  • Cleaning and shaping (20-40 minutes)
  • Filling the tooth with rubber-like material (10-20 minutes)
  • Final sealing or temporary cap placement (5-10 minutes)
• The time taken for the root canal procedure depends on factors like the tooth location, the extent of infection, the number of roots in a tooth, the tools and technology used, and the number of visits.
• A one-visit root canal procedure is quick and takes only a single visit to complete the procedure.
• A multiple-visit root canal procedure takes time, and the procedure is spread over many visits.

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Understanding the Timeline of a Root Canal Procedure

A root canal procedure is a common dental treatment that helps save a tooth that is infected or badly damaged. It not only eases pain but also protects the tooth from further damage and restores its function safely and effectively. One question that pops up the most often when we recommend a root canal at Dental & Wellness London is how long a root canal takes.

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Generally, the procedure takes about 30 to 90 mins, but the timing can vary depending on the tooth’s location, the extent of infection, and the number of visits required during the procedure. The purpose of this blog is to guide you through the full timeline of a root canal procedure so you know what happens in each stage. 

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What is a Root Canal Procedure?

A root canal procedure is a dental treatment performed to save a natural tooth. The procedure becomes necessary when bacteria enter the soft tissue inside the tooth, called the “pulp,” causing infection and damage. 

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The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive. When bacteria reach this inner layer through deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it often results in severe pain, sensitivity, and swelling. 

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Instead of removing the whole tooth, the dentist carefully removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the space, and seals the tooth to prevent further damage or infection. This helps preserve your natural bite, maintains oral health, and overall well-being.

How Long Does a Root Canal Procedure Take?

Here is a step-by-step timeline to understand how long it takes for a root canal procedure: 

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Step 1: Initial Checkups and X-rays (10-15 minutes)

At the first appointment, the dentist checks your affected tooth and takes an X-ray. The X-ray shows the tooth’s roots and helps the dentist see how bad the problem is. 

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Step 2: Numbing the Tooth (5-10 minutes)

Before the root canal begins, the dentist administers a local anaesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. This ensures that you remain comfortable during the procedure. 

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Step 3: Opening the Tooth (10 minutes)

Once the tooth is numb, the dentist makes a small opening at the top of the tooth. This opening helps reach the pulp inside. 

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Step 4: Cleaning and Shaping the Canals (20-40 minutes)

This is the longest part of the root canal procedure. The dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside with small tools, and shapes the canals for filling. The time may vary depending on the number of roots. Molars take longer because they have more canals. 

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Step 5: Disinfecting the Canals (5 minutes)

After cleaning and shaping the tool with special tools, the canals are washed with disinfectant. This helps to make sure no bacteria remain in the canals.

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Step 6: Filling the Tooth (10-20 minutes)

After cleaning and shaping the canal, it is filled with a rubber-like material to keep bacteria out. 

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Step 7: Final Sealing or Temporary Cap (5-10 minutes)

Root canal-treated teeth always need a crown for complete protection from further damage or reinfection. The dentist may place the crown on the same day or at another visit. 

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Factors Influencing Root Canal Procedure

Several factors can change how long a root canal takes. Understanding these can give you a clearer idea of what to expect during the procedure.

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Key aspects that affect how long a root canal takes are:

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• Tooth size and shape: Bigger teeth, like molars, usually have more roots and canals. So, they may take longer to clean and fix. Smaller teeth in the front usually take less time. 
• Extent of decay: When decay is extensive, the dentist must carefully remove all the affected areas before proceeding, which can extend the duration of the procedure.
• Complex root structure: Some roots can be curved, hard to reach, or blocked. These tricky parts need more time and care during the treatment. 
• Tools and technology: Modern machines and dental tools can speed up cleaning and shaping the canals, making the whole process shorter. 
• Number of visits: Sometimes, more than one appointment may be needed, especially if the infection is severe or the tooth is complicated.
• Existing dental work: If the tooth already has a crown or a filling, it may take extra time to access the canal through the existing structure.
• Gum condition: If the gums are bleeding, additional time may be needed to control the bleeding before completing the root filling.

One Visit vs Multiple Visits Root Canal Procedure 

The most important factor when you consider the root canal procedure timeline is the number of appointments needed. You may wonder why some root canal procedures need one visit, while others need more. Here’s why: 

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• One-visit root canal: Used when the infection is mild and there are fewer canals. It is also efficient since there is no need for repeated anaesthesia or temporary fillings, and the risk of bacteria entering the tooth between visits is lower. 
• Multiple visit root canal: It is better for more complex cases, such as severe infections or pus, because it allows the dentist to clean the tooth thoroughly over time. During this process, a special disinfecting medicine is placed inside the tooth between appointments to reduce bacteria and ensure proper healing. 

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How Long Does Recovery from the Root Canal Procedure Take?

After a root canal procedure, your mouth needs time to heal. Here is what to expect during recovery:

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• Right after treatment: The anaesthetic may leave your mouth feeling numb for a few hours. Your jaw could also feel slightly stiff from being kept open.
• In the following days: It’s normal to notice tenderness, sensitivity, or mild swelling. These symptoms usually peak during the first couple of days.
• By the end of the week: Discomfort typically eases, and most people find they are back to their regular routine without much trouble.

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For smoother recovery, follow your dentist’s instructions. Apply ice wrapped in a cloth on your cheek to help with swelling and discomfort. Avoid eating until the numbness wears off and stick to soft foods during recovery. Also, maintain oral hygiene while being careful around the treated area.

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Final Thoughts

Understanding how long a root canal takes can help reduce anxiety and make the procedure more predictable. While the duration depends on factors such as the tooth’s condition, number of roots, and the complexity of the infection, most root canals are completed within 30 to 90 minutes.

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At Dental & Wellness London, we are dedicated to making your root canal treatment as smooth and stress-free as possible. With over 18 years of experience and more than 50,000 successful treatments, our expert dentist at Essex Road ensures the procedure is efficient and handled with the utmost care for every patient.

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If you are experiencing symptoms of a tooth infection, book a consultation with us for root canal treatment in Islington.

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Contact us: 020 8127 4567

Email us: reception@dentalskin.co.uk

Address: 222 Essex Road, London N1 3AP

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FAQs

How should I prepare for my root canal appointment?

Eat a light meal, take any prescribed medications, and inform your dentist of any medical conditions or allergies. Being relaxed can help make the procedure quicker.

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How long does a root canal-treated tooth take to heal? 

A root canal usually takes a few days to heal, but full recovery can take about 1 to 2 weeks. During this time, you must follow your dentist's instructions carefully and maintain good oral hygiene. 

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How can you control throbbing pain after a root canal?

To control a throbbing pain after a root canal, apply an ice pack to your cheek and take the pain medicines given by your dentist. Remember to rest, avoid hard foods, and brush and floss your teeth daily.

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How much is root canal treatment?

In London, root canal treatment usually costs between £300 and £900 per tooth. Simple front teeth treatment costs around £450, while complex molars are closer to £600 and £900. The cost may vary depending on several factors, such as the number of tooth roots, location, extent of infection, and the dentist's experience. 

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