How long does it take to recover from a root canal and crown

What to Expect During Your Root Canal Treatment and Recovery

25/11/2021

Root canals can seem like a daunting treatment for many patients, however, we are pleased to say that treatment techniques have improved to the point that patients do not need to fear. An infected tooth can be effectively treated and saved with a root canal if caught early enough.

At Dentists on the Gold Coasts, your comfort and your teeth are our number one priority. When you need a root canal, there is no reason to be afraid. Our qualified and trained dental professions will make you feel comfortable, and we will have you in and out in no time.

Not sure what to expect from a root canal procedure? Continue reading below to learn more.

What is a Root Canal and What Do Dentists Do?

Root canal treatment removes bacteria and inflammation from a tooth’s root canal. The dentist treats and seals the tooth to prevent reinfection while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. When a patient gets a root canal, the dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth by drilling out the infected root and nerve. The tooth is then carefully disinfected, filled and sealed. If too much of the tooth is infected and removed –a crown is used. The main goal is to make sure the patient is comfortable and that the procedure goes smoothly. Root canal procedures are commonplace and routine –there is no reason to be uneasy about it.

Does a Root Canal Procedure Hurt?

Patients receive anesthesia during a root canal treatment. This treatment is no different from any other dental procedure and is similar to when a patient gets a filling or wisdom teeth removed. Some patients have noted that they experience a fleeting soreness, discomfort or numbness for a few days after the procedure.

How Long Does a Root Canal Take?

On average, a root canal treatment takes under one hour to complete. Most procedures take between 30 minutes to 60 minutes. It is not unusual for a patient to sit in the dentist’s chair for about 90 minutes during the root canal appointment. Root canal procedures take a significant amount of time because your tooth and root system need numbing, drilling, rinsing and sealing.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From a Root Canal?

Recovering from a root canal is pretty simple. Within 2-4 hours following the procedure, most patients can return to work or school directly following their root canal treatment. Patients should wait until the numbness has dissipated to eat so they don’t accidentally damage the inside of their mouth.

Save Your Natural Tooth and Explore Root Canal Treatment Near You

If it is time for your checkup or you are in pain, it is time to schedule your appointment! Dentists on the Gold Coast specialises in general dentistry in Queensland, including root canals. We will remove the inflamed or infected pulp inside your tooth with little to no discomfort.

To learn more about root canal treatment in Queensland, call us today on 07 5689 5460.

How long does it take to recover from a root canal?

Posted by PS Dental on Jul 25 2021, 10:55 PM

Are you suffering from throbbing pain, and your dentist has suggested you have a root canal treatment? Do you have worries about the procedure? We understand - root canal procedures can cause worry to some people as it is an invasive procedure that might involve extracting the infected tooth. But don’t be worried; we will help you by walking you through every step. At PS Dental, our root canal specialists use the latest dental equipment and state-of-the-art technology to achieve maximum precision in root canal procedures.

What is a root canal treatment?

Decay can cause bacteria to eat away and weaken the tooth enamel, thus reducing the protection between the tooth nerves and the outside world. Untreated, advanced decay can affect the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue of the teeth leading to an infection. When the infection invades the pulp and tooth root, a root canal treatment would be necessary to eliminate the infection and prevent tooth loss and other consequences.

Root canal therapy is a safe and effective procedure to eliminate dental infection and maintain the quality of the teeth. 

When do we need a root canal infection?

You may be suffering from a root canal infection if you have the following symptoms:

  • Persistent toothache
  • Pain while chewing or biting
  • Increased tooth sensitivity 
  • Bad breath
  • Swelling of lymph nodes or face
  • High fever

Though all these symptoms may indicate a root canal infection, only your root canal specialist can identify your needs and schedule your treatment. 

How does root canal treatment work? 

Root canal treatments are recommended by dentists only when no other treatments can save an infected tooth. When the dental pulp or the soft tissue in the center of a tooth becomes infected, a root canal treatment would be necessary. During the treatment, your dentist begins by administering sedation to numb the mouth. Once the sedation takes effect, the dentist creates an opening in the top of the tooth, eliminates the infected pulp, and dries the inside of the tooth. Later, the area is filled with a biocompatible substance before closing the hole. The dentist places a dental crown or a permanent filling to protect the tooth a few weeks later.

What factors affect the length of the root canal procedure?

Root canal treatment generally requires between 30 and 90 minutes and can be performed in a single visit. The different variables that can affect the duration of a root canal treatment include the following: 

  • The severity of the root canal infection
  • The location of the affected tooth within the mouth 
  • Whether the tooth needs a permanent filling or a crown later

How long does it need to recover from a root canal?

In most cases, patients require only a few days to recover from a root canal procedure. After the procedure, the patient may feel some irritation or soreness for the first 24 to 48 hours. To manage this pain and soreness, your dentist will prescribe over-the-counter pain medication. Besides, applying a cold compress can also help address these issues and assist in smooth and speedy recovery. Even during the recovery period, do not skip your daily oral hygiene practices involving brushing and daily flossing. Do not apply much pressure or chew with the treated tooth until the dental crown or filling is placed.

However, after a root canal treatment, if you continue to feel the following symptoms, contact us:  

  • Your bite seems uncomfortable.
  • The swelling does not recede even after one or two days.
  • The temporary filling comes out.
  • You continue to experience swelling or pain in the gums like before the treatment.

Do you still have doubts about the root canal treatment, or are you planning to get one? Call PS Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at (503) 574-4000 or schedule an appointment online. 

How long does pain last after root canal and crown?

A successful root canal can cause mild pain for a few days. This is temporary, and should go away on its own as long as you practice good oral hygiene. You should see your dentist for a follow-up if the pain lasts longer than three days.

How long should you rest after a root canal?

Most of the time, people who have had root canal therapy can go back to work or school the next day. However, if you've had sedation during your dental procedure, you may need an extra day or two to fully recover.

Do I need rest after root canal?

Getting rest is vital to a strong and fast recovery from a root canal. You need to make an effort to get as much quality sleep as you can during this period. This will help you get back to feeling 100 percent again.

How long should I wait after a root canal for crown?

It is safe to get a root canal and crown together on the same day. The root canal procedure will not require as much anesthetic as you might expect. A local anesthetic will go over the targeted area to numb the surface, although nitrous oxide may also be used in the treatment process to keep you comfortable.