Did your dentist recommend you to have a root canal procedure? If so, you might be wondering how long this procedure takes. Well, thanks to modern dentistry, a root canal can be completed in a shorter time compared to what it used to take. You can even have it in a single dental visit. This is because advanced technology has made dentistry more efficient and pain-free. Thus, the root canal has become one of the most popular dental procedures today.
A root canal can take around 30 to 60 minutes for simple cases and is mostly done in a single visit. But complex issues can take more than 90 minutes. Why does the duration differ for certain cases? This is because the time root canal takes depends on various factors, including:
- Patient’s tooth condition
- The length of time
- Patient’s cooperation
- Anatomy of the root
It is important to note that root canal procedure is highly safe and effective. So you don’t have to worry about bearing the pain for an hour or so.
Is Root Canal Treatment Very Painful?
A root canal procedure is used to relieve pain, not cause pain. This is because, during the procedure, anesthetics are administered by your dentist. And so, you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. However, you can experience mild pain once the effects of sedatives subside after the procedure. You can still easily manage it by using over-the-counter pain relievers. To give you an idea, the overall pain you will experience is similar to a cavity filling. Besides, endodontists are generally experts when it comes to pain management. So your root canal procedure will likely be finished swiftly.
Note: it is unlikely to experience persistent pain or worsening of pain following the procedure. But if you do feel that, it is advisable to visit your dentist for re-evaluation as soon as possible.
Who needs a root canal procedure?
People with a cracked tooth or infection generally need a root canal procedure. But you should consult your dentist if you experience the following symptoms:
- Severe pain while chewing
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Persistent sensitivity
- Darkening of the gums
- Swollen gums
If you experience any of these symptoms, please feel free to contact Houston’s emergency dentist. Our team is ready to help you.
Root canal procedure’s cost
Root canal’s cost varies from case to case. Complex cases are relatively more costly than simple cases. But most insurance providers often consider root canal medically necessary. So they will likely cover some portion of the cost, if not all. Moreover, many dentists offer a discount to make such necessary treatments affordable. Therefore, it is advisable to ask your dentist and insurance company beforehand and check how much it will cost you.
Avoid delaying this treatment
Delaying root canal procedures isn’t a good idea. This is because the infection can likely worsen with time if you leave it untreated. It can also spread to other areas of your mouth. This can invite several other dental complications. So, having a root canal treatment on time is the best way to achieve optimum oral. This way, you can get back to your painless days sooner.