How Long Does A Root Canal Take? - Love Your Smile

General/Family Dentistry |7 min read How Long Does a Root Canal Take? by Love Your Smile published August 13, 2020Last updated January 6, 2026

A typical root canal treatment takes between 30 and 60 minutes per appointment, though more complex cases—especially on molars with multiple roots—can take up to 90 minutes. Most procedures are completed in one or two visits, and if a crown is needed, an additional appointment (about 60 minutes) may be required. Despite common myths, the procedure itself should not be painful because of effective anesthesia, and any discomfort usually comes from the untreated infection.

Dr. Neal Raval Dental experience: 10+ years.

Quick answer:

The average root canal treatment is 30 to 60 minutes long. More complex cases may take around 90 minutes.

A root canal typically requires one or two appointments to complete.

Now, wait!

Before you run off terrified at the idea of 30 to 90 minutes of pain, we’ve got a secret to tell you …

Root canal procedures shouldn’t hurt.

What you’ve been told about root canals causing pain is a myth.

The truth is, root canal therapy gets you out of pain. The pain associated with this procedure comes from the tooth itself before getting treated.

Honestly, this is one of the first questions you ask us when you sit back in the dental chair. And we get it. Time matters. At Love Your Smile here in Seattle, WA, we hear it every week: How long does a root canal take? You want straight answers, not fluff. We’re here to talk it through like we would chairside, calmly and clearly, with no scare tactics.

We’re Drs. Raval, Azary, and Lee, and when we talk with you about a root canal, we focus on comfort, clarity, and results. This isn’t just about a dental procedure. It’s about saving your natural tooth, easing pain, and getting you back to normal life.

So let’s walk through what really happens, what affects timing, and what you’ll feel along the way.

What is a root canal, really?

A root canal isn’t just a treatment. It’s also a space inside your tooth. Inside that space lives pulp made of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. That soft tissue keeps your tooth alive and connected to your gums and bone.

Every tooth has at least one canal. Some teeth have multiple canals, and molars can have up to four canals. When that inner space gets inflamed or infected, we recommend root canal treatment to stop the spread and save the tooth.

Left alone, an infected pulp can cause severe pain, discoloration, and even further infection that affects other teeth and your overall health.

Why would I need a root canal treatment?

You may need a root canal when bacteria reach the inner tooth. This often happens from deep decay, cracks, or trauma. Even old dental work can stress a tooth over time.

Common causes include:

• Cavities that reach the pulp
• Chips or fractures
• Extensive decay
• Repeated dental treatment on one tooth
• Injury, even without visible damage

In such cases, the tooth becomes an infected tooth, and ignoring it risks further damage.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

Sometimes your tooth whispers. Sometimes it yells.

You may notice:

• Persistent pain or pain that comes and goes
• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Swelling in the gum surrounding the tooth
• Pain when chewing
• Darkening of the tooth
• Signs of tooth infection

And yes, the most direct sign? When your dentist tells you to call us. If we advise treatment, it’s because we see a risk on your X-rays and during a thorough examination.

What happens during the actual procedure?

Let’s keep this simple. The actual procedure focuses on removing infection and sealing the tooth.

Here’s what you’ll experience at Love Your Smile in Seattle, WA:

1. We numb the area using local anesthesia.
2. We isolate the affected tooth for safety and comfort.
3. We create a small hole to reach the canal.
4. We remove infected tissue using special tools.
5. We clean and disinfect the space.
6. We fill the canal with synthetic material.
7. We seal it with a temporary filling or a permanent filling.

In some cases, we place medication and schedule a follow-up appointment. That’s normal and safe.

How long does a root canal take for front teeth?

Front teeth usually move fast. They have only one root, which helps.

For front teeth, a root canal can take about 45 to 60 minutes. These teeth are easier to reach and clean. The tooth location plays a big role here.

So when you ask how long a root canal takes, front teeth often bring relief quickly.

How long does a root canal take for molars?

Molars take more time. They sit farther back and often have multiple canals.

A molar root canal may take 90 minutes or longer. Some need one or two appointments, while complex cases may need multiple appointments.

This is where we explain why the length of time for a root canal varies. More roots mean more care.

Does tooth type affect how long a root canal takes?

Yes. Tooth type matters.

• Incisors: only one root
• Canines: one long root
• Premolars: one or two roots
• Molars: up to four canals

Each root adds time. That’s why we say the root canal treatment can vary depending on the structure and infection.

Will I need one or two appointments?

Most root canals need one or two appointments. That depends on infection severity and healing response.

Sometimes we stop after cleaning and place a temporary or permanent filling. Then we check healing at your follow-up appointment.

In rare cases, healing takes longer, so we plan carefully.

Do root canals hurt?

Let’s be honest. People ask if a root canal hurts all the time.

During the procedure, you won’t feel pain. We use a local anesthetic, and your comfort matters to us. Afterward, you may feel mild discomfort or mild soreness.

That usually fades in a few days and responds well to over-the-counter medication.

The real pain comes from waiting too long.

How long does recovery take after a root canal?

Root canal recovery is usually smooth. Most people return to normal activities the next day.

During the recovery period, avoid chewing on the treated side until we place a permanent crown, if needed.

We’ll guide you every step so healing stays on track.

Will I need a crown after my root canal?

Often, yes. A crown protects the treated tooth and restores proper oral function.

Some teeth don’t need one. We explain your treatment plan clearly before we start.

If needed, a permanent crown usually comes after healing.

Should I see a dentist or an endodontist?

In many cases, your regular dentist’s office can handle treatment. Other times, a dental specialist helps.

We’ll tell you if a dentist or endodontist fits your case best. Either way, your care stays coordinated.

What happens if I wait too long?

Waiting allows bacteria to spread. That leads to further complications, more pain, and higher costs.

An untreated infection can affect soft tissue, bone, and even your overall health.

If you feel severe pain, call a dentist immediately.

Why choose Love Your Smile in Seattle, WA?

At Love Your Smile, we treat people, not just teeth. Drs. Raval, Azary, and Lee focus on patient comfort, clarity, and honest care.

We use modern tools, clear X-rays, and careful planning. Our goal stays simple: Save your tooth, relieve pain, and protect your smile.

We’ve helped many patients across Seattle, WA, keep their natural teeth strong and healthy.

Quick timing guide

Tooth	Average time
Front teeth	45–60 minutes
Premolars	About 60 minutes
Molars	90 minutes or more

Final thoughts

If you’re worried about time, pain, or outcomes, talk with us. Root canal care isn’t meant to be scary or time-consuming.

We look forward to helping you feel better, chew comfortably, and smile with confidence again.

How Long Does it Take to Recover From a Root Canal?

Need a root canal dentist in Seattle?

Our Seattle dentist offers general/family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry, including pain-free root canals.

We’re located in downtown Seattle, next to Amazon and the Space Needle, and serve communities all over the greater Seattle Area.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a root canal or have been told you need one, contact us today for a root canal appointment. The sooner we see you, the sooner we can get you out of pain.

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