If you’ve ever been told you might need a root canal, chances are you had two immediate thoughts: “Is it going to hurt?” and “How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take??” The truth is, most people imagine hours in a dental chair, but reality is much kinder than the rumors. Dentistry has come a long way in the last decade, and root canal treatment is now faster, gentler, and more predictable.
At Markham Gateway Dentistry, we’ve helped many patients who walked in feeling anxious and left relieved—not just because the pain was gone, but because the procedure took far less time than they imagined.
Understanding What’s Really Happening: How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take?
Inside every tooth is a space filled with soft tissue called pulp. This pulp is home to nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When decay, cracks, or trauma reach this inner area, it can become inflamed or infected. That’s when a root canal becomes necessary.
Rather than pulling the tooth out, a root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside, and seals it to prevent future issues. The result? You keep your natural tooth, your bite stays the same, and your smile looks exactly as it should.
It’s not a punishment—it’s a rescue mission for your tooth.
The Average Timeline You Can Expect
Most root canal treatments are completed in about 60 to 90 minutes in a single visit. Sometimes it’s even quicker. Of course, there are exceptions. If the tooth is more complicated—say, a molar with multiple canals—or if the infection is severe, your dentist may need a second appointment to finish the job.
For example, a front tooth often takes less time because it has just one canal. A back molar, however, can have three or more, and each one needs careful cleaning and sealing. That’s not something to rush.
At Markham Gateway Dentistry, we make sure you know in advance whether your treatment is likely to be a single visit or will need a follow-up, so you can plan your day (and your nerves) accordingly.
What Actually Happens During the Appointment: How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take?
First, the tooth and surrounding area are fully numbed so you won’t feel pain. Once you’re comfortable, the dentist creates a tiny opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected pulp is carefully removed using fine, precise instruments.
Next, the canals are cleaned and shaped, almost like preparing the inside of the tooth for a custom filling. The area is then disinfected to get rid of any lingering bacteria. Finally, the canals are sealed with a special biocompatible material to keep infection from coming back.
In many cases, a crown is placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function. Sometimes that crown can be placed the same day, but in other cases, it’s fitted during a separate appointment.
Why Some Root Canals Take Longer
Not every root canal is straightforward. If your tooth’s canals are curved or unusually narrow, it takes extra time to clean them thoroughly. If the infection has spread beyond the tooth, your dentist might need to place medication inside the canal and wait a week or two before sealing it permanently.
This isn’t about delay—it’s about ensuring the tooth heals properly and the problem doesn’t return. We believe at Markham Gateway Dentistry that it’s worth an extra visit now to avoid bigger problems later.
Recovery Time After the Procedure
The best part? Most people are back to normal activities the next day. You might notice some tenderness or mild sensitivity for a couple of days, but this usually fades quickly. Over-the-counter pain relief is all most patients ever need.
One tip: avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until your dentist gives the all-clear, especially if you’re still waiting for your crown.
The Role of Experience in Saving Time
Here’s something patients sometimes overlook—the dentist’s experience can make a big difference in how smoothly and quickly the treatment goes. A skilled dentist knows how to work efficiently without cutting corners. At Markham Gateway Dentistry, we use modern imaging technology, precision instruments, and years of experience to make the process as fast and comfortable as possible.
It’s not about racing the clock; it’s about doing it right the first time.
A Realistic Way to Look at It: How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take?
So, how long does root canal treatment take? Think of it like this: you’re trading about an hour in the dental chair for saving your natural tooth and stopping the pain for good. That’s a pretty good deal.
If you’ve been delaying treatment because you’re worried about the time commitment, know that the sooner you get it done, the simpler (and often quicker) the procedure will be. Waiting only gives the problem more time to get worse.
How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take? Final Thoughts
Root canals aren’t the drawn-out ordeals they used to be. For most people, it’s a one-visit procedure that’s over in under ninety minutes, with relief that can last a lifetime. At Markham Gateway Dentistry, we’ve seen the transformation—not just in teeth, but in the way patients feel about dental care once they realize how easy it can be.
How Long Does Root Canal Treatment Take? If you’re dealing with persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or swelling around a tooth, don’t ignore it. Call us, book your appointment, and let’s save that tooth before it’s too late.
