When you’re in pain due to a cracked or infected tooth, it can be hard to focus on anything else. Naturally, you’re probably eager to be treated so your mouth can begin healing. The great news is that if your dentist recommended a root canal, relief could arrive sooner than you think. Here’s how long you can expect treatment to take, and what will happen during the procedure.
What is a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal is a procedure performed by your dentist to treat a tooth that is broken or infected. Before any work begins, your mouth will be numbed. Next, your dentist will drill open the tooth and remove the infected pulp from the root canals. The pulp will then be replaced with a synthetic material that prevents the infection from returning and spreading while supporting the structure of the tooth. The tooth will then be closed back up with either a filling or dental crown. If you need a crown, you will receive a temporary one on the day of your root canal, and you’ll need to return to your dentist’s office in three to four weeks to have the permanent crown seated.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
The exact length of a root canal procedure depends on a variety of factors, including the location of the tooth and the severity of the infection. If the infection is very bad, it may require several appointments to complete treatment. Typically, a root canal can be done in 30 to 90 minutes if it’s done in one sitting.
How Long is Recovery from a Root Canal?
The good news is that recovering from a root canal should only take a few days. Following treatment, you may even experience immediate relief because the infection is no longer causing painful inflammation. Be sure to take the remainder of the day off from work, school, and other activities, including exercise or any type of physical exertion.
Your tooth should feel a little better each day, but if it does not, or if you notice any feverlike symptoms or if it gets worse instead of better, contact your dentist as soon as possible. If you need to return for a permanent crown, you can return to daily activities following that appointment if you choose to.
Root Canal Aftercare Tips
Following your root canal, your tooth should function the same as your untreated teeth. While you will likely need to wait a few days before you’re ready to use it, you should be able to brush and floss it as usual immediately after. If you have received a crown or temporary crown, be careful when flossing around it, as it is possible to get your dental floss caught underneath and loosen the restoration.
Should you experience any lingering pain, you can take prescription or OTC pain reliever or hold ice on your face over the tooth. Temporary crowns can sometimes cause sensitivity, but this usually goes away when your permanent crown is attached.
Remember, a root canal treatment can provide long lasting relief from painful tooth injuries and infection. Don’t wait for another moment to get the help you need. Speak to your dentist about repairing your tooth with the help of a root canal procedure.
About Our Practice
At EMA Dental, our team of skilled and caring dentists want to give you the beautiful, pain-free smile you deserve. If you are suffering from a painful tooth injury or infection, a root canal can help restore the appearance and function of your teeth while relieving any related discomfort. To schedule an appointment as soon as possible, please call us directly at your preferred location.