If you’re suffering from an agonizing toothache and have been told you need a root canal, you may be wondering how long the procedure takes and how soon you’ll be able to experience some relief. Root canals are an excellent treatment for teeth that have become broken or infected, alleviating their pain and protecting them from further damage. Here’s a closer look at the procedure itself, and when you can expect to start feeling better after treatment!
What Are Root Canals?
Root canals are a dental treatment designed to remove the infected pulp from inside of a tooth. To perform this procedure, first your dentist will numb the tooth, and once you’re comfortable, they’ll drill it open and remove the damaged pulp from the canals. After sterilizing the area, they will fill it with a synthetic material that prevents the infection from returning and keeps the tooth alive. Then, it will be closed with either a dental filling or crown.
How Long Will My Root Canal Procedure Take?
How long your root canal takes depends on several factors, such as the location of the tooth and how severely it’s infected. Very serious infections could require several appointments to treat; however, many root canals typically take between 30 and 90 minutes.
How Long Will It Take to Recover from My Root Canal?
The good news is that most root canals provide immediate relief, or at least a noticeable lessening of pain. Furthermore, recovery usually takes just a few days. However, following your procedure, it is advised that you take the rest of the day off from work or school, and avoid any strenuous activities to give your body a chance to recover.
The discomfort in your tooth should continue to lessen with each passing day, but if for any reason it does not, or if you begin experiencing any signs of infection such as a fever, call your dentist immediately.
Aftercare Tips for Root Canals
Following your root canal, your tooth should be able to function as it did before it was injured. Be sure to avoid using it for a few days until it feels better but continue to brush and floss it as usual.
If you are still experiencing discomfort, you can take prescription or over-the-counter pain medicine as directed or apply a cold compress to your face over the tooth.
Remember, root canals can help stop painful tooth infections from worsening and spreading while providing instant relief, but the sooner you act, the better your odds for a smooth and successful recovery.
About Our Practice
At Taylor Street Dental, our team of skilled and caring dentists knows that painful tooth infections can make focusing on anything else impossible. That’s why we’re proud to offer same-day emergency appointments and CEREC same-day restorations to ensure your entire root canal can be done as quickly and efficiently as possible. We even have sedation options for patients who may otherwise be too afraid to get help, so don’t let anxiety hold you back. If you’re suffering from a dental emergency, don’t wait for it to get worse! Call us today at 413-781-7645 and get the relief you need.