How Long Does It Take to Do a Root Canal?
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, one of the first questions that might come to mind is: “How long does it take to do a root canal?”
The good news is that modern dentistry has made this once-feared procedure far more efficient and comfortable.
In most cases, it takes only 60 to 90 minutes and sometimes just one appointment to save your natural tooth and eliminate pain.
At Family Dentistry on Brock, we specialize in delivering gentle and effective root canal therapy in Brock Tillsonburg.
Located at 49 Brock St E, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 1Z7, Canada, our clinic offers comprehensive dental care with state-of-the-art equipment and a compassionate approach.
Understanding Root Canal Treatment
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to remove infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of a tooth.
The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and when it becomes compromised due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, it can cause pain and lead to infection.
Many patients are referred to us when looking for an experienced Emergency Dentist in Tillsonburg, especially when dealing with sudden tooth pain or abscesses.
Timely treatment can often save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
How Long Does It Take?
The time required for a root canal depends on several factors:
- Tooth location – Front teeth usually have one canal, while molars may have three or more.
- Infection severity – A simple case may take one visit; complex infections could require two or more.
- Patient comfort and condition – If you have swelling or limited mouth opening, sessions may be split.
On average, a root canal takes 60 to 90 minutes. At Family Dentistry on Brock, our skilled dentists use digital imaging, rotary tools, and advanced irrigation techniques to make the process as fast and painless as possible.
The Procedure: Step-by-Step
Here’s a quick look at the steps involved in a root canal:
- Exam and Imaging: Digital X-rays are taken to identify the number of canals and extent of infection.
- Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed for a pain-free experience.
- Access Opening: A small hole is drilled in the tooth to reach the pulp.
- Pulp Removal: Infected tissue is removed and the area is disinfected.
- Filling and Sealing: The canals are filled with a material called gutta-percha and sealed.
- Restoration: A crown or filling is placed to protect the tooth structure.
Root canals are also sometimes necessary before cosmetic procedures like Dental Veneers in Brock Tillsonburg when a tooth has been structurally compromised.
Is a Crown Always Required?
Not always but in many cases, especially for molars or premolars, a dental crown is recommended after root canal therapy to restore strength and functionality.
The crown placement may be done in a follow-up visit, depending on your specific needs.
If your treatment plan involves both restorative and aesthetic improvements, our Dental Clinic in Tillsonburg offers a wide range of solutions under one roof, including crowns, veneers, and bridges.
Benefits of a Timely Root Canal
Delaying treatment can allow infection to spread, resulting in pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. At Family Dentistry on Brock, our dentists emphasize early intervention and patient education.
We also work closely with patients undergoing Orthodontics treatment in Tillsonburg, as a healthy foundation is essential for successful alignment and bite correction.
Whether it’s part of an emergency treatment or a planned procedure, root canals at Family Dentistry on Brock are performed with precision, care, and patient comfort as top priorities.
FAQs About Root Canal Timing and Care
1. Can a root canal be done in one visit?
Yes, many root canals are completed in a single visit, especially if there’s minimal infection or structural damage.
2. Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?
You won’t feel pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Mild soreness afterward is common but temporary.
3. Is a root canal better than extraction?
In most cases, saving the natural tooth with a root canal is the better option. It preserves function and avoids shifting teeth.
4. How do I know if I need a root canal?
Signs include persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot/cold, swelling, or darkening of the tooth. A dental exam will confirm the need.
5. What happens if I delay the procedure?
Delaying treatment may lead to worsening infection, abscesses, and potential tooth loss. Early treatment is always best.
Conclusion
A root canal may sound daunting, but it’s a straightforward procedure that can relieve pain and restore your smile in as little as one visit.
Knowing what to expect and where to go for expert care makes all the difference.
At Family Dentistry on Brock, we take pride in providing gentle, efficient, and thorough root canal therapy to patients in Brock Tillsonburg and beyond.
Our team is here to help you save your natural teeth and maintain optimal oral health.
📍 Address: 49 Brock St E, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 1Z7, Canada
📧 Email: info@familydentistryonbrock.com
