How Long Does Root Canal Therapy Take?

The time devoted to a root canal treatment can vary based on the extent of the infection and your individual needs. In many cases, just one visit is needed to complete a root canal. However, some patients may need two or more scheduled visits to complete their treatment. Our dentist in Santa Clara will determine the time needed to complete your root canal upon consultation.

The first task is to clean and shape the root canals of the tooth. Next, the root canals are filled and sealed. Both steps may be completed same day, but it may be done at a later appointment if the infection was severe, or there is significant inflammation present. Scheduling multiple appointments allows us to manage flare-ups and gives your tooth time to heal between the initial root canal treatment and the sealing process.

If the treatment is completed in a single appointment, it may be done in 30 to 90 minutes. This variation is dependent on the number of roots that are present. Teeth with single canals will take less time than teeth with multiple canals. The restoration of the treated tooth is typically completed at a later appointment.

An infected or abscessed tooth cannot be treated at home, and will only heal once the diseased tissue has been removed. Call our dental office today to learn more or to schedule your appointment with our root canal dentist in Santa Clara.