How Much Time Does Root Canal Treatment Take?
The root canal eliminates the affected and inflamed pulp from the tooth inside. One of the major advantages of the treatment is that it eradicates the infection and pain in the mouth. Most patients return to their lives within one or two days following the procedure. Not every dentist performs root canal surgery. Some may refer you to an endodontist that has done specialized training. Let us find out how much time Grimsby dentist takes in RCT.
What Causes the Need for Root Canal Treatment?
Below are the situations when you might need this endodontic treatment:
- Large tooth fillings.
- Severe tooth decay.
- Cracks or chips on the tooth, exposing the inner layer of the tooth.
- Repeated dental procedures to the tooth.
- Trauma to the face (even if you do not see any visible signs).
Root Canal Process
The apicoectomy treatment includes the following steps:
- At the endodontist dental office, the expert checks the state and shape of root canals using X-rays. It will also help them spot the infection around the tooth bone.
- Then, he/she prepares the patient for the process. The dental professional uses local anesthesia if required.
- Now, the expert puts a rubber band to keep the area saliva free and dry.
- Then, he/she uses a drill to eradicate the decayed pulp, bacteria, and nerves.
- Usually, the expert uses sodium hypochlorite or water to get rid of the debris.
- Then, he/she seals the opening. It usually depends on your situation. Sometimes, the dentist waits for one week.
- After that, the expert fills the outer opening between dental appointments temporarily. It is mainly when the root canal does not finish the same day. It helps to eradicate saliva and debris effectively from the tooth.
- He/she fills the tooth using a gutta-percha or a sealer gum.
- Finally, the expert repairs the tooth effectively if there is severe decay. He/she uses a crown and a post to strengthen and protect the tooth.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
On average, RCT takes 30 to 60 minutes. However, it may take up to one hour if you need treatment on a large tooth with multiple roots. Root canal requires one or two dental appointments. The time length depends on the severity of the tooth impaction and the number of roots your tooth contains. Below is the breakdown of the average time length for each tooth:
- Premolars – 60 minutes.
- Incisors and Canines – 45 to 60 minutes.
- Molars – 90 minutes or more.
Root Canal Treatment Risk
The procedure has the following risks:
Sinus Congestion
A root canal can cause sinus issues. Although it is not dangerous, sinus cavity inflammation can be irritable with congestion and headaches. If you continuously have a salty flavor in your mouth, it signifies that the RCT is causing sinus problems.
Reinfection
If the expert fails to finish any stage of root canal treatment incorrectly, reinfection can occur. Usually, the spaces or cracks left in the sealing stage could let the bacteria move to the tooth. It is also possible for the crowns or fillings used on the outer part of the tooth to wear down with time and cause bacterial infection.
Color Changes
Few patients get discoloration on the treated tooth. It’s because when the dentist or endodontist eliminates the infected or damaged tooth pulp, the tooth dies. The dead tooth roots also expose the dentin layer. To improve the appearance of the discolored tooth, the expert uses cosmetic procedures like veneers, crowns, etc.
Cracks on the Tooth
Root canal treated tooth becomes weak and brittle. It’s because the tooth dies when the professional removes the living parts of the tooth. Getting a crown after a root canal helps to strengthen the outer reaching of the tooth.
Does Insurance in Canada Covers Root Canals?
Insurance in Canada covers basic dental services like fillings and root canals. Depending on where you reside in Canada, RCT prices can be hefty. The insurance provider may give partial coverage for root canal surgery.
Avoid Unnecessary Tooth Pulling and Save Teeth with Root Canal
If your root canal is inflamed or infected, receiving a root canal treatment at Smiles of Canada can help you treat it effectively. If you ignore it, the tooth impaction can move to your teeth and other body parts. It not only requires tooth pulling but also loses the benefits of the original tooth.