Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile!
Although single visit root canal treatments are common, it can sometimes take an additional visit to thoroughly clean (mechanically and chemically) a root canal system and fill it. Teeth with multiple root canals or complex root canal architecture can take longer to clean.
A root canal can be performed in one visit. However, sometimes due to infection or advanced anatomy, it may take multiple visits to complete a root canal. Importantly, it is not the number of visits, but the quality and disinfection occurring that is important.
A tooth can have one or multiple canals depending on which tooth it is. Generally, front teeth have one canal and the back teeth have multiple canals. Root canal treatment usually takes one to three visits depending on the difficulty of the canal system; more canals and curved roots may take more visits or a complicated infection may take longer to complete.
Most root canals can be done in a single visit. More complicated cases such as teeth with multiple roots, curved roots, or infections could require more than one visit. A tooth that has had a root treatment may require a new crown.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.