When it comes to quality dentistry, patients deserve nothing but the best. Dr. Kevin Ackerman and Dr. Eric Towson provide expert care that’s both effective and affordable. One essential service we provide is root canal treatment in Brentwood, California. This procedure is often necessary to save a damaged or infected tooth from extraction. The Ackerman & Towson Dentistry team can perform root canals with minimal discomfort and maximum success rates, helping patients maintain their smiles for years to come.
If you suspect you need root canal treatment, you might wonder how long the process takes. Today we will explore how long root canal treatment usually takes, what factors can affect the length of treatment, and what you can expect from the process.
With a commitment to quality care and advanced techniques, our top-rated dental office is equipped to handle any oral health issue that comes our way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Before we discuss how long root canal treatment takes, let’s first understand what it is. Root canal treatment, or endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged tissue inside a tooth. This tissue, known as the dental pulp, contains nerves and blood vessels that can become infected due to decay, cracks in the tooth, trauma, or other factors. During root canal treatment, the dentist will clean out the infected pulp, shape the root canals, and fill them with a unique filling material.
How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Usually Take?
The length of root canal treatment can vary depending on several factors. On average, root canal treatment can take between one and three appointments, each lasting about 60-90 minutes.
The first appointment typically involves cleaning out the infected pulp and shaping the root canals, while subsequent appointments may be needed to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to place a permanent filling or crown.
Factors That Can Affect the Length of Root Canal Treatment
While the average length of root canal treatment is one to three appointments, several factors can affect the length of the procedure. One factor is the extent of the infection, with more severe conditions taking longer to clear. The tooth’s location can also impact treatment time, with molars typically taking longer due to their size.
What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is typically performed under local anesthesia, which helps to numb the area and minimize discomfort during the procedure. The dentist will make a small access hole in the tooth to remove the infected pulp and shape the root canals. They will then clean and disinfect the canals before filling them with a temporary filling material. Subsequent appointments may be needed to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to place a permanent filling or crown.
Aftercare Following Root Canal Treatment
After root canal treatment, following your dentist’s instructions is important to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or pain medication to manage discomfort or infection. You should also avoid chewing or biting with the treated tooth until the permanent filling or crown is placed.
Good oral hygiene can also help prevent future infections or complications. Remember to brush and floss regularly.
Root Canal Treatment in Brentwood
In conclusion, root canal treatment can take one to three appointments lasting 60-90 minutes. The length of treatment can vary depending on several factors. During the procedure, the dentist will remove the infected pulp and shape the root canals before filling them with a unique material.
Following root canal treatment, following your dentist’s instructions for aftercare is essential to promote healing and minimize the risk of complications. Contact Ackerman & Towson Dentistry to schedule an appointment for root canal treatment.
