Updated: 9/19/25
Most root canals are quicker than you might think. For simple cases, you’ll usually be in and out in about 30 minutes to an hour. If things are a little more complicated, it may take closer to 90 minutes—or in some cases, your dentist or endodontist may recommend a follow-up visit to place a permanent filling or crown.
How long your root canal takes depends on the tooth being treated and how many canals need attention. Some teeth only have one canal, while others can have three or even four, which takes a little more time.
A root canal, also referred to as endodontic treatment, is a procedure during which a dental specialist removes soft tissue from within a tooth that has become infected or inflamed. This tissue, called dental pulp, contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that feed the tooth’s root and keep it healthy. When the dental pulp of a tooth becomes damaged or begins to deteriorate—as the result of damage to the tooth, broader infection, or extensive decay—it can cause a very painful pus-filled pocket (abscess) at the root of the tooth. The only way to relieve the pain, save the tooth, and prevent reinfection is with a root canal procedure.
Root canals can be performed by a dentist, but are also commonly referred to an endodontist, a dental professional who specializes in dental pulp. An endodontist’s additional training includes pain management, pain diagnosis, and other procedures necessary for saving natural teeth.
Root canals are relatively standard procedures, regardless of who conducts them. Similar to a filling, root canals are typically a same-day, in-house procedure that can take place in your regular dentist’s office.
Because they are performed under local anesthesia, root canals are generally no more painful than other routine procedures. Some soreness, numbness, or mild discomfort may persist for 24-48 hours after the treatment—which can often be managed by over-the-counter pain medications—but nearly all patients can return to their normal activities the same day. In most cases, the pain of the infected tooth is much greater than any pain felt after the root canal procedure.
Unlike other parts of your body, teeth are unable to heal themselves, especially once they are infected. If left untreated, infection and inflammation will spread to other tissues, teeth, or even areas of your mouth. A root canal is the only way to preserve a natural tooth because neither cleanings nor fillings adequately remove all of the damaged pulp. The only alternative to a root canal is the extraction of the entire tooth itself. Extractions are considerably more expensive, involved, and time-consuming than a root canal, and carry the added requirement of replacing the removed tooth with an implant, crown, bridge, or partial denture to maintain proper oral function.
Root canal failure is very rare, accounting for only about 5% of all root canal procedures. However, if your first root canal treatment is not successful, the tooth can still be saved via endodontic retreatment or an apicoectomy. During retreatment, the previously placed filling material is removed, the canal cleaned again, and the tooth refilled and resealed. An apicoectomy removes the infected tissue by going through the tooth’s root, then seals the root.
For more information on root canals, visit our root canal FAQ page.
Root canals often sound scarier than they are, but the caring team at Dental Depot is committed to making your experience as convenient, comfortable, and painless as possible. We know dental procedures are often the last thing you want to do with your valuable time, but with flexible scheduling, specialists on staff, and plenty of exam rooms, Dental Depot helps you get in, get out, and get on with your day. We pride ourselves on providing the high-quality, affordable dental care you and your family deserve in a professional, friendly environment. To find the location nearest you, or to request an appointment, visit our dental office location finder.