How Long Does a Root Canal Take? What to Expect at Your Appointment
By Dr. Mason Haddow
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, one of the first things that might cross your mind is, “How long is this going to take?” Will you be stuck in the dental chair for hours? Will it require multiple appointments?
The good news is, root canals don’t take as long as people think. With modern dental techniques, the procedure is efficient, comfortable, and often completed in one visit.
This guide will break down exactly how long a root canal takes, what affects the duration, and how you can make the process smoother.
Key Takeaways
✔ A root canal typically takes 60-90 minutes but can be up to 2 hours for molars.
✔ Most root canals are completed in one visit, but severe cases may require two or more.
✔ The location of the tooth, severity of infection, and complexity of the case affect treatment time.
✔ Recovery is usually quick, with most discomfort resolving within a few days to a week.
✔ Delaying a root canal can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and further infection.
What Is a Root Canal and Why Might You Need One?
A root canal is a common dental procedure designed to save a tooth that’s severely infected or decayed.
Inside each tooth, there’s a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria enter the pulp—through a deep cavity, crack, or trauma—it can cause severe pain and infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to abscesses, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
✔ Severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away
✔ Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
✔ Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
✔ Darkening of the tooth
✔ A pimple-like bump on the gums (sign of an abscess)
Why Not Just Extract the Tooth?
Some people assume pulling the tooth is a quicker fix, but saving your natural tooth is always the best option when possible. A root canal allows you to keep your tooth structure, avoid bone loss, and prevent the need for costly replacements like bridges or implants.
If you’ve been experiencing persistent tooth pain, don’t ignore it—it could be a sign that you need a root canal.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take? The Short Answer
On average, a root canal takes between 60 to 90 minutes per tooth.
For simpler cases, the procedure can be as quick as 30 to 60 minutes, while more complex cases (like molars) can take up to 2 hours.
General Time Estimates by Tooth Type
- Front teeth (incisors & canines): 30-60 minutes (they have only one root canal).
- Premolars: 60-90 minutes (they usually have one or two canals).
- Molars: 90 minutes to 2 hours (they have three or four canals, requiring more work).
One Appointment or Two?
- If the infection is mild and the canals are easy to clean, a root canal can often be completed in one visit.
- If the infection is severe, or the tooth needs additional treatments (like a crown), a second visit may be required.
The good news? Most patients feel relief almost immediately after a root canal, as the source of pain is removed.
Factors That Affect Root Canal Duration
While the average root canal takes 60-90 minutes, several factors can make the procedure shorter or longer:
1. Severity of Infection
- If the infection is mild, your dentist can complete the root canal in one visit.
- If the infection is severe, they may apply medication inside the tooth and schedule a second appointment to finish the treatment.
2. Condition of the Tooth
- A tooth with narrow or curved roots takes longer to clean properly.
- A fractured tooth may require additional steps, extending the procedure.
3. Experience of the Dentist
An experienced dentist or endodontist (root canal specialist) can perform the procedure faster and more efficiently than a general dentist with less experience in complex cases.
4. Dental Technology Used
- Modern rotary instruments and 3D imaging allow for faster and more precise treatment.
- Older techniques may take longer, especially if hand tools are used instead of rotary files.
5. Presence of Previous Dental Work
- If the tooth has a large filling or previous root canal, additional steps may be needed, extending the procedure.
The simpler the case, the quicker the root canal. Complex cases might take two or more visits.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Root Canal & How Long Each Stage Takes
Here’s a breakdown of the procedure and how much time each step takes.
Step 1: Numbing the Tooth (5-10 minutes)
Your dentist will apply local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area. If you’re nervous, sedation options may be available.
Step 2: Placing a Dental Dam (5 minutes)
A small rubber sheet (dental dam) is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and bacteria-free.
Step 3: Cleaning Out the Infection (20-45 minutes)
Your dentist will:
✔ Open the tooth and remove the infected pulp.
✔ Clean and shape the root canals using tiny files.
✔ Flush the canals with antibacterial solutions to kill any remaining bacteria.
Step 4: Filling & Sealing the Tooth (15-30 minutes)
Once cleaned, the dentist fills the canals with a rubber-like material and seals the tooth to prevent future infection.
Step 5: Placing a Temporary or Permanent Crown (15-30 minutes)
- If a crown is needed, the dentist may place a temporary filling and schedule a follow-up to fit a permanent crown.
5. How Many Appointments Are Needed for a Root Canal?
One Visit (Most Cases)
✔ Healthy teeth with mild infections
✔ Front teeth (incisors and canines)
✔ No additional complications
Two or More Visits
✔ Severe infection requiring medication inside the tooth
✔ Molars with multiple canals
✔ Need for a permanent crown
6. How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?
Most patients recover fully within a few days, but mild soreness may last up to a week.
What to Expect Post-Procedure
✔ Day 1-2: Minor soreness, manageable with ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
✔ Day 3-5: Discomfort should improve significantly.
✔ 1 Week+: No more pain—if discomfort persists, call your dentist.
Quick Recovery Tips
✔ Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until fully healed.
✔ Eat soft foods for a couple of days.
✔ Keep up with good oral hygiene (but be gentle around the area).
Looking for the Best Dental Clinic for a Root Canal in Lathrup Village, MI?
If you need a root canal in Lathrup Village, MI, you deserve a trusted, experienced dental team that makes the process as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Why Choose Premier Image Dentistry?
At Premier Image Dentistry, we understand that the thought of a root canal can feel overwhelming. That’s why we prioritize:
✔ Gentle, expert care – Our experienced dentists use advanced technology and pain-free techniques to ensure a smooth experience.
✔ Same-day and emergency appointments – Tooth pain won’t wait, and neither should you.
✔ Modern technology – We use state-of-the-art imaging and rotary endodontic tools to make root canals faster and more efficient.
✔ A compassionate approach – We focus on patient comfort, explaining each step and ensuring you feel at ease.
✔ Comprehensive dental services – From preventive care to full restorations, we’re here for all your dental needs.
Schedule Your Root Canal Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Premier Image Dentistry in Lathrup Village, MI, is ready to provide you with top-tier care in a comfortable environment.
Call us today to book your appointment!
Final Thoughts: A Root Canal Is Worth the Time
While a root canal takes 60-120 minutes, it saves your natural tooth and eliminates pain. If you’ve been putting it off, don’t wait, getting it done sooner means an easier, faster recovery.
